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Reflective Surfaces Enhancing Solitude in a Harmonious Community Space

Author:
D.h. Kim
Reflective Surfaces Enhancing Solitude in a Harmonious Community Space

Project in-detail

Reflective surfaces create a serene ambiance that encourages introspection and connection in a community space designed for quiet reflection and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective surfaces enhance natural light throughout the space.
02
Panels facilitate indirect interaction and personal reflection.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to structural integrity and warmth.
04
A bent A-frame design creates unique spatial dynamics.
05
Natural elements integrate the building with its surroundings.

The design presents a thoughtful exploration of the connection between individuality and community. Located in an urban setting, it serves as a peaceful refuge aimed at fostering reflection and introspection among users. The concept is influenced by the Japanese idea of "Wa," which means harmony, highlighting the importance of peaceful coexistence within a group while respecting personal identities.

Panels

Carefully arranged panels create a spatial framework that encourages indirect interaction. Users can engage with their environment without direct confrontation, allowing for moments of solitude and contemplation. The arrangement fosters an atmosphere conducive to self-discovery while maintaining respect for each individual's personal space.

Reflective Surfaces

Reflective surfaces play a crucial role in the design. These materials amplify natural light, creating a dynamic visual experience that changes throughout the day. They enhance aesthetic appeal and cultivate a calm environment, inviting users to pause and interact with their surroundings.

Balancing Harmony and Individuality

A key aspect is the balance between harmony and individuality. The approach allows each person's unique presence to be acknowledged within a cohesive setting. This relationship redefines interactions, enabling individuals to be seen as vital members of a community while preserving their autonomy.

Natural Elements

Incorporating natural elements into the design enriches the user experience. Features integrated into the architectural framework encourage users to connect with both interior and exterior spaces, merging the boundaries between architecture and nature. The result is an environment that nurtures both reflection and engagement.

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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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