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Reflective Steel Structures Enhancing Natural Observations

Authors:
Mauricio Léniz, Bernardita Léniz, Felipe Zelada
Reflective Steel Structures Enhancing Natural Observations

Project in-detail

Polished stainless steel surfaces reflect the surrounding landscape while guiding observers through a spatial experience that emphasizes observation and interaction within a public installation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective surfaces adapt to changing light conditions, transforming the appearance throughout the day.
02
The design incorporates both convex and concave elements to manipulate visual perspectives.
03
Structural stability is achieved through a robust steel mast and tensioners.
04
Integration with the landscape enhances the user’s connection to the natural environment.
05
Public engagement is prioritized through a spatial layout that guides observation and interaction.

The Reflection of Kemeri explores how people observe and interact with their surroundings. Situated in a landscape that combines natural beauty with architectural form, the design focuses on the relationship between light and space. This project engages viewers through the use of reflective surfaces, fostering a connection between architecture and nature.

Spatial Organization
- The arrangement of spaces within the design prioritizes movement and sensory perception. Different heights and angles encourage observers to navigate through the structure, leading to moments of reflection and contemplation. By incorporating both convex and concave elements, the design alters visual perspectives, creating an immersive environment that emphasizes the act of seeing.

Material Composition
- Steel is a key material in the framework of the project. The use of a steel mast and an interior structure contributes to its strength and stability. Polished stainless steel surfaces serve to enhance the reflective qualities of the design, allowing light to play across the spaces and change throughout the day. These selections provide not only durability but also a means for the building to respond visually to the environment.

Integration with Landscape
- The design integrates closely with the surrounding landscape, emphasizing a relationship that enhances both the architecture and the natural setting. By aligning the structure with the contours of the site, the project amplifies reflections and encourages engagement with nature. This intentional relationship offers users a unique experience that deepens their connection to the area.

Reflection as Experience
- Reflective surfaces invite people to engage with their surroundings in a new way. As viewers observe, they see not only the landscape but also a mirror of themselves and the world around them. This focus on observation instills a sense of wonder and curiosity, making the experience of being in the space actively engaging. Every angle and reflection contributes to a rich narrative that resonates with the essence of the site.

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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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