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Recessed Glass Facade Featuring Sinuous Shapes and a Stone Curve Structure

Authors:
Barbara Sandri, Andrea Smaniotto
Recessed Glass Facade Featuring Sinuous Shapes and a Stone Curve Structure

Project in-detail

A recessed glass façade and sinuous forms define a building that integrates a stone curve with a zen garden, creating a tranquil retreat for contemplation and community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Recessed glass façade enhances connectivity with the landscape.
02
Sinuous forms are inspired by organic growth patterns.
03
Incorporates a circular path to promote reflection and interaction.
04
Utilizes Krion for sustainability and durability.
05
Strategically positioned at the plateau's edge for optimal views.

The design presents a thoughtful interaction between the building and the surrounding landscape. It is set in a tranquil area, emphasizing a connection between nature and human activity. The central concept revolves around a stone curve, guiding visitors and creating a direct link to the natural elements nearby. This design fosters a peaceful atmosphere that invites reflection and engagement.

Stone Curve

The stone curve acts as a key feature of the overall layout, providing an inviting path for visitors. This winding pathway enhances the experience as individuals approach the building. It symbolizes a connection to the environment, directing attention toward the zen garden and establishing a narrative that deepens the relationship with the site.

Zen Garden Integration

Positioned at the heart of the design, the zen garden complements the building and its natural surroundings. A circular path winds through the garden, featuring ponds and islands that create various viewpoints. These elements encourage visitors to pause and reflect, offering an opportunity for quiet contemplation. The smooth transition from interior to exterior highlights the integration of space, promoting a sense of calm and connectivity.

Organic Forms

The design utilizes curved shapes that echo the natural landscape. These forms allow the building to follow the terrain, maintaining a low profile that minimizes disruption to the views and ecosystem. By respecting the geography, the structure harmonizes with its environment, enhancing the overall visual appeal while contributing positively to the landscape.

Material Considerations

Materials used in the construction are essential to the design's intent. The extensive use of glass allows for inviting views and a strong connection to the outdoors. Krion, a durable mineral-based material, is incorporated to reflect a commitment to longevity and sustainability. The choice of metal components facilitates efficient construction processes and supports maintenance needs over time.

The architectural design features a recessed glass façade that offers clear views of the peaceful landscape, reinforcing a strong relationship between the space and the natural surroundings.

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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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