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Reflective Facade of Moveable Plastic Panels in a Community Center Emphasizing Thermal Efficiency

Author:
Abdulrahman Ketabi
Reflective Facade of Moveable Plastic Panels in a Community Center Emphasizing Thermal Efficiency

Project in-detail

A facade defined by reflective and moveable plastic panels enhances thermal performance while integrating a central courtyard brimming with greenery, serving as a vital community center at the heart of urban life.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective plastic panels enhance light manipulation and optimize energy efficiency.
02
The design includes a central courtyard that integrates native vegetation for biodiversity.
03
Movable elements allow the building to adapt to varying community needs and events.
04
Thermal insulation is achieved through the use of advanced cementitious materials.
05
Water management systems collect rainwater for irrigation and sustainable landscaping.

### Overview

Situated opposite the Lake of Reflections adjacent to Chinatown in Sydney, Australia, the Reflective Light project employs a multi-layered design approach that emphasizes the relationship between natural elements and urban architecture. The intent of the design is to integrate light, water, and greenery into the built environment, with a strong focus on sustainability and environmental coherence.

### Spatial Configuration and Interaction

The architecture features a series of blocks strategically arranged to explore the geometric interplay of volumes and voids, fostering interaction between the natural and built environments. Each block is oriented to optimize views and access to light, enhancing user experience. A central courtyard, enriched with greenery and water features, reinforces visual connectivity while creating microclimates that enhance the comfort and usability of the space.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

A diverse palette of materials underpins the building's design, combining practicality with aesthetic appeal. Plastic panels facilitate air and light circulation, while metal sheets contribute to the structural integrity and dynamic interaction with the surroundings. Wood, fabric, and cement are incorporated to create a warm, welcoming interior. Key sustainable design elements include systems for rainwater collection and irrigation, demonstrating a commitment to ecological performance. The use of renewable materials further aims to minimize the building's ecological footprint while incorporating advanced mechanical systems for efficient management of light and water flow.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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