Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Natural Stone Integration and Biophilic Elements in a Multi-Pavilion Residential Setting

Author:
Mark Cameron Johnson
Natural Stone Integration and Biophilic Elements in a Multi-Pavilion Residential Setting

Project in-detail

Seamlessly integrating natural stone and sustainable materials, the design embraces a series of interconnected pavilions that facilitate both private retreat and communal living within a contemporary residential environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates multiple courtyards that enhance natural ventilation and outdoor living.
02
Utilizes a combination of natural stone and charred wooden shingles for integrated aesthetics.
03
Features large glass panels that blur the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure that allows for efficient use of space and light.
05
Integrates solar collectors for renewable energy and sustainable living practices.

## Project Overview

Located in a climate conducive to outdoor living, the House of Courtyards features a contemporary design centered around a series of interconnected pavilions that focus on interaction with nature. Each pavilion encircles a central courtyard, facilitating a balance between private retreat and communal gathering. This spatial organization optimizes natural light, enhances ventilation, and supports a lifestyle that merges indoor and outdoor experiences.

## Spatial Strategy

The design encompasses three distinct pavilions—each serving specific functional purposes. Pavilion 1 functions as the entry point, characterized by large windows that offer expansive views and a welcoming atmosphere. Pavilion 2, situated adjacent to the pool, emphasizes leisure through shaded areas that promote interaction with water features. Pavilion 3, located at the rear, provides privacy while ensuring connections to communal spaces. Interspersed courtyards serve as multifunctional areas designed for both private respite and social engagement, likely integrated with landscaping that reflects local biodiversity.

## Materiality and Sustainability

Materials used throughout the House of Courtyards illustrate a balance between durability and aesthetic appeal. Concrete predominates, providing structural integrity and a minimalist style, while extensive glass elements blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor settings, inviting natural light into the interiors. Steel is incorporated in both railings and frames for added stability, and natural stone enhances the sensory experience through warmth and texture.

The design also incorporates sustainability features, including solar collectors that contribute to energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Lighting design plays a vital role in creating inviting evening environments, with illuminated water walls enhancing the exterior aesthetics while augmenting the user experience during nighttime.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy