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Reflective Surfaces and Sustainable Materials Enhance Underground Living Spaces

Author:
Xaveer André V Claerhout
Reflective Surfaces and Sustainable Materials Enhance Underground Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing modular reflective surfaces and sustainable materials, the design maximizes natural light in subterranean living spaces, creating a functional and efficient residential environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes an innovative modular mirror system to enhance daylight penetration into underground areas.
02
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes structural integrity while minimizing surface disruption.
03
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and weather resistance.
04
Employs cross-laminated timber panels to reduce carbon footprint and enhance sustainability.
05
Integrates biophilic design elements, including indoor planters that promote natural ventilation and well-being.

### Project Overview

The Periscope project is situated within a context that encourages exploration of subterranean living while adhering to sustainable practices. By incorporating designs that facilitate the entry of natural light and provide views from below ground, the intention is to create an environment that mitigates the challenges associated with urban development. Employing an innovative architectural framework, this project aims to establish a symbiotic relationship between the built environment and its natural surroundings.

### Spatial Strategy and Functions

The architectural layout is methodically organized into distinct functional zones. The upper level comprises communal living spaces, including lounges and cafés, designed to maximize daylight through extensive glass features, providing unobstructed views of the exterior landscape. In contrast, the underground level accommodates private residences and service areas, enhanced by light wells that redirect sunlight into lower spaces. This configuration promotes both social interaction and privacy, ensuring a comprehensive approach to underground habitation.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The design strategy employs a diverse palette of materials reflective of the project’s sustainability goals. Reinforced concrete provides structural integrity, while large glass panels facilitate light penetration and visual connectivity with the exterior. Sustainable wood finishes enhance the warmth of indoor environments, and reflective metal elements significantly contribute to the building's ability to channel natural light. Additionally, green roof components serve dual purposes of insulation and ecological integration, fostering biodiversity while minimizing visual impact on the surroundings. The project also incorporates energy-efficient technologies that optimize performance, such as solar energy collectors and natural temperature regulation systems, thereby minimizing reliance on conventional energy sources.

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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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