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Piano-Inspired Living with Natural Wood and Glass Elements

Author:
Maria fernanda Pervan
Piano-Inspired Living with Natural Wood and Glass Elements

Project in-detail

Drawing inspiration from the keys of a piano, the design integrates natural wood and glass elements to create a harmonious living space that fosters interaction and connection with the surrounding environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design mimics piano keys in its ceiling structure.
02
Roof gardens create microclimates to enhance air quality.
03
Buttressed structure elevates the home to avoid flooding.
04
Natural wood and glass offer a harmonious connection to nature.
05
Rainwater collection systems promote sustainable resource use.

The Piano House is an innovative design that captures the essence of music through its architectural form. It aims to create a comfortable environment for its occupants while integrating sustainable practices. This residence is designed to adapt to different climates and settings, embodying an approach that considers both functionality and the emotional experience of space.

Design Concept

At the heart of the Piano House lies a concept that bridges art and practicality. The architecture draws inspiration from musical rhythms, with elements resembling piano keys woven into its design. Sustainable solutions, such as photovoltaic panels for energy generation and rainwater collection systems, are integrated throughout, showcasing a commitment to environmental responsibility.

Materiality and Structure

Materials play a key role in the overall design. Pine wood is used in the structure, providing a natural warmth that enhances the interior atmosphere. Glass panels are employed in the façades, allowing natural light to flow freely and offering unobstructed views of the surroundings. The rounded walls create a welcoming space, contrasting with the restrictive feeling often associated with conventional sharp angles.

Spatial Organization

The layout of the Piano House is designed to promote social interactions among residents. The public area contains the living room, kitchen, and dining/work zones, creating an inviting atmosphere for gatherings. As one moves toward the private areas, such as bedrooms and bathrooms, the structure narrows. This thoughtful design maintains a spacious feel, enriching the experience of both social and intimate moments within the home.

Sustainable Features

Sustainability is a prominent feature in the design of the Piano House. Roof gardens contribute to biodiversity and improve air quality, while the implementation of rainwater collection emphasizes efficient resource management. These features not only support the environment but also enhance the overall living experience, making the house both practical and connected to the natural world.

The ceiling design, evoking the appearance of piano keys, introduces different rhythms and tones to the living environment. This element further reinforces the connection to music, offering an inspired atmosphere that invites a sense of peace and creativity throughout the home.

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

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Competition organisers

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

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