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Reflective Glass Facade Harmonizing With Staggered Layouts and Natural Timber Elements

Authors:
Torsten Schlauersbach, Yinka Oyesiku, Annie Ming Yee Lo, Jack Sheedy, Megan Alison Bryn Palavics
Reflective Glass Facade Harmonizing With Staggered Layouts and Natural Timber Elements

Project in-detail

A reflective glass facade seamlessly integrates with a staggered, open layout of timber elements, creating a tranquil residential space that fosters a deep connection with the surrounding forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective glass panels create a dynamic interplay with the forest, enhancing the structure's integration with its surroundings.
02
Staggered floor levels provide varied sightlines, promoting spatial complexity and natural light diffusion.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are used for structural elements, enhancing sustainability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Charred wooden shingles offer a unique texture while improving fire resistance and durability.
05
The bent A-frame design adds visual interest and maximizes interior volume while maintaining a compact footprint.
The Gate House is a contemporary architectural project located in a forest setting that emphasizes transparency and harmony with the natural environment. This design utilizes extensive glass facades to blur the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces, facilitating a connection between the occupants and the surrounding landscape. The architecture not only serves as a living space but also as a reflection of modern design principles focused on sustainability and integration.

Architecturally, The Gate House stands out due to its careful selection of materials, including glass, timber, steel, and concrete. These materials contribute to both the visual and functional aspects of the design. The glass facade acts as a mirror to the wooded environment, creating a seamless transition that minimizes visual impact while enhancing the user experience. Internally, timber elements introduce warmth, contrasting with the sleek glass surfaces and providing an inviting atmosphere within the living areas.

Design Approaches that Differentiate the Project

One of the unique aspects of The Gate House is its innovative layout that encourages exploration and interaction with both the built environment and the surrounding landscape. The design features staggered floors which support varied sightlines and enhance spatial complexity. This design approach allows for dynamic use of internal spaces and encourages natural light to permeate throughout the house, creating a varied ambiance throughout the day.

The project also incorporates architectural elements that reflect a thoughtful response to sustainability. The extensive use of glass is not merely for aesthetics; it aligns with energy efficiency goals while ensuring ample natural light. Additionally, composite materials are likely integrated for thermal insulation, further emphasizing the commitment to eco-friendly building practices. The careful consideration of the house's placement within its site also reflects an understanding of landscape integration.

Functional Aspects of the Design

The Gate House's layout is meticulously organized across different levels, catering to the needs of its residents while promoting a sense of tranquility. The open-plan design encourages fluid movement between rooms, offering functional living spaces without detracting from the connection to the outdoors. Architectural sections illustrate this cohesion between indoor and outdoor environments, highlighting how the design fosters continuous engagement with nature.

The integration of structural components, such as steel frameworks and concrete foundations, provides stability and allows for larger glass panels. This approach enhances the overall aesthetic by reducing the presence of bulky structural elements and maximizing viewlines.

For further details regarding The Gate House, including architectural plans, sections, and various design insights, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. An examination of the architectural designs and ideas will enrich understanding of the unique qualities and functional strategies employed in this distinctive architectural project.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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