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Reflective Pond and Curved Concrete Roof Enhance Serenity in Residential Space

Author:
Hwang Janghyeon
Reflective Pond and Curved Concrete Roof Enhance Serenity in Residential Space

Project in-detail

A curved concrete roof captures natural light while a reflective pond fosters tranquility in a residential space designed for harmonious living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved concrete roof maximizes light diffusion throughout living spaces.
02
Reflective pond serves as an acoustic and thermal moderating feature.
03
Warm wooden finishes contrast with the minimalist concrete structure.
04
Open-plan layout enhances both privacy and social interaction.
05
Large glass openings create seamless connections with the surrounding landscape.

## Project Overview

Located in a serene context that emphasizes natural connections, "Below the Moon" presents a residential design that integrates light and materiality. This project aims to create spaces that promote tranquility and harmony with the surrounding environment through thoughtful architectural elements showcased in detailed floor plans, sections, and axonometric views.

### Connection to Nature

The design emphasizes the interplay between architectural forms and natural elements, particularly light and water. The pond serves as a reflective surface that enhances the spatial experience while also providing functional cooling and improved acoustics. The unique arched roof design channels and diffuses light into the interior, creating dynamic visual effects throughout the day. This careful integration of natural features enhances the connection between the built environment and its landscape.

### Human-Centric Design

The organization of spaces within the residential layout prioritizes user interaction and the experience of nature. Placement of windows and openings allows for expansive views and ample natural light, fostering well-being and immersion in the outdoor landscape. Key spaces include a living room oriented towards the pond for social gatherings, and private bedrooms situated in quieter areas of the plan for restful retreats. The arrangement promotes a sense of community while also respecting individual privacy.

### Materiality

The material selection is fundamental to the design's structural integrity and sensory appeal. Predominantly, concrete is utilized for its durability and reflective qualities, while warm wood elements provide a contrast that invites comfort. Glass components maintain a visual relationship with the exterior, maximizing daylight and enhancing luminosity. The pond further serves both aesthetic and functional roles, amplifying the diffusion of light throughout the interiors.

### Roof and Light Management

The arched roof design is a focal point, characterized by sweeping curves that enhance the introduction of natural light into the space. Skylights and strategically positioned apertures promote a dynamic atmosphere that evolves with the day, emphasizing the project’s sensitivity to light and its impact on user experience. This thoughtful approach not only elevates the aesthetic quality of the design but also enriches the overall living experience.

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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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Chair
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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