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Reflective Panels Enhancing Intimacy in Communal Spaces

Author:
D.h. Kim
Reflective Panels Enhancing Intimacy in Communal Spaces

Project in-detail

Reflective panels positioned at 200mm height foster intimacy and self-reflection, creating a tranquil communal space that encourages meaningful interactions among its users.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective panels at 200mm height enhance visual connection while providing privacy.
02
A structured grid layout of 20x20mm supports clarity and order within the space.
03
Design emphasizes intimacy through strategic panel placement for personal engagement.
04
Utilizes light dynamics to create shifting atmospheres throughout the day.
05
Promotes communal interaction while respecting individual identities among occupants.

The design explores the relationship between individual identity and collective harmony within a thoughtfully crafted environment. It is situated in a location that promotes social cohesion, reflecting the principles of "Wa." The aim is to create a calming space that encourages both quiet reflection and active interaction. The focus is on fostering connections among occupants while recognizing the nuances of personal significance.

Design Concept

At the heart of the design is the goal of nurturing a sense of belonging. It tackles the pressures people face to conform in everyday life, prompting occupants to discover their personal identities within the greater whole. This approach raises important discussions about intimacy with others and the environment encountered during daily routines.

Architectural Elements

Reflective panels play a central role in the design, selected for their ability to create connections while maintaining some visual separation. These panels are set at a height of 200mm, effectively marking boundaries while also promoting an atmosphere of introspection. Their reflective surfaces invite occupants to engage with their own identities and the surrounding space, encouraging a deeper connection to the environment.

Grid Structure

The arrangement of the panels follows a grid consisting of 20x20mm dimensions, contributing to the overall visual order of the design. This systematic layout enhances both aesthetics and functionality, allowing for limited visual connections between individuals. The positioning encourages users to pause and interact with their surroundings, creating openings for thoughtful reflection that enriches the shared experience.

Inherent Ambiguity

The design embraces a sense of ambiguity, blending into the environment while reflecting the unique characteristics of its occupants. This approach challenges traditional views of identity and space, creating an environment that resonates on both emotional and social levels. A final detail of the project is how light plays across the surfaces of the panels, shifting throughout the day. This dynamic quality creates an ever-changing atmosphere, inviting occupants to continuously engage with their surroundings and themselves.

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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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