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Reflective Space Framed by Natural Light and Emotional Journey

Authors:
Alexandria Supino, Stephen Nuttall
Reflective Space Framed by Natural Light and Emotional Journey
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With a focus on the Scar in the Earth, the design integrates natural light to create a reflective space that emphasizes the emotional journey of confronting past harm while serving as a memorial dedicated to justice and hope.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design emphasizes a Scar in the Earth to symbolize reflection and transformation.
02
Natural light is strategically used to enhance the emotional experience within the space.
03
Panels guide visitors through a narrative journey from guilt to hope.
04
The use of cross-laminated timber promotes sustainability while providing structural integrity.
05
Charred wooden shingles offer a unique texture that resonates with the theme of memory.

The Decision Point serves as a thoughtful space designed to engage visitors in a reflection on humanity's moral and ethical journey. Positioned within a memorial setting, the design aims to connect the past with a vision for a hopeful future. It highlights themes of justice and the inherent value of human life. The overall concept expresses an abstract representation of the decision-making processes that shape our society.

Concept and Narrative

The main focus of the design is the idea of a decision point, which encourages visitors to confront the realities of historical actions. As people move through the space, they experience a narrative that brings to light the burden of guilt associated with past wrongs. This emotional path leads them to the Scar in the Earth, a key feature that symbolizes both the acknowledgment of harm done and the commitment to change for the better.

Spatial Experience

A series of panels creates a journey from darkness to light. These panels act as guides, helping to convey the story. They contrast experiences of past neglect with a desire for a fairer future. Each element in the space invites visitors to reflect, encouraging them to think about their own views on justice and humanity. The arrangement of these components creates a strong bond between the narrative and the experience within the environment.

Unique Features

The Scar in the Earth stands out as a crucial aspect of the design. It serves as a physical representation of the project's main idea. This feature highlights a moment of reflection, inviting individuals to consider the weight of their choices. Its incorporation into the design underscores the aim of fostering an understanding of how past actions shape future responsibilities, adding depth to the memorial space.

Light plays an essential role in the experience, enhancing the emotional landscape. Natural light filtering through the space changes the atmosphere, showing the transition from past struggles to brighter possibilities. This effect not only emphasizes the design's themes but also allows visitors to engage deeply with the space and reflect on their own experiences and choices.

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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

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