Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

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

Petal-Inspired Community Space Featuring Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Dynamics

Author:
Alejandro Carreras
Petal-Inspired Community Space Featuring Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Dynamics

Project in-detail

The design's petal-inspired form, constructed with charred wooden shingles and optimized for natural light, creates a community space that fosters interaction while seamlessly integrating with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Petal-inspired curvature enhances spatial flow and visual connection with nature.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels enable rapid construction while ensuring structural integrity.
04
Natural light is maximized through strategically placed large glass elements.
05
Community interaction is fostered through flexible, open gathering spaces.
This architectural design project is situated in northern Portugal, where its layout, inspired by the morphology of flowers, interacts harmoniously with the surrounding mountainous landscape. This project integrates ecological considerations with user-friendly design, creating a space that fosters community engagement and reflects the beauty of its natural context. The architecture emphasizes fluid lines and organic shapes, encouraging exploration while maximizing natural light and landscape connectivity.

Natural Integration of Design Elements

The key innovation in this project lies in its use of floral geometry to influence spatial organization. The design features rounded forms and spiraled structures that mimic flower petals, promoting a sense of flow throughout the space. This layout not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also facilitates social interaction, with communal gathering areas seamlessly woven into the overall design.

The choice of materials further enhances the project's unique approach. Sustainable materials such as wood, glass, and concrete not only fulfill structural requirements but also adhere to environmental principles. Wood provides warmth and responsiveness, while large glass panels create visual transparency that connects interior spaces to their exterior surroundings. The integration of concrete and steel offers necessary strength for expansive forms, ensuring stability without compromising design integrity.

Functional Design and Community Engagement

Functional aspects of the project prioritize accessibility and movement through the built environment. Pathways and ramps are incorporated to allow visitors to traverse the space comfortably, inviting exploration and interaction. This emphasis on accessibility extends to the overall layout, which encourages spontaneous gatherings and promotes communal involvement.

The design also reflects the geographical context of northern Portugal, with its undulating forms echoing the local topography. By aligning with the natural environment, the architecture resonates with the cultural and ecological identity of the region, fostering a connection between inhabitants, visitors, and the landscape.

Architectural Innovation and Sustainability

Sustainability is at the forefront of this architectural project, which employs eco-friendly design principles. The incorporation of renewable materials and a layout that harmonizes with the natural landscape demonstrates a commitment to both ecological responsibility and functional design. This project stands apart from traditional architectural designs by focusing on biophilic elements, promoting user interaction with nature.

The unique approach to integrating floral influences, combined with an emphasis on community spaces and sustainable practices, positions this project as a relevant model for future architectural endeavors.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and innovative design ideas behind this project, explore the full project presentation for further details and insights into its development.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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 16,979 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