Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Reflective Water Features Enhancing Contemplation Within Textured Concrete and Steel Structures

Author:
Tingting Zhou
Reflective Water Features Enhancing Contemplation Within Textured Concrete and Steel Structures

Project in-detail

Employing reflective water features and a tactile interplay of concrete and steel, the design establishes a contemplative space that invites introspection and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective surfaces create changing visual experiences throughout the day.
02
Water features enhance acoustic and sensory interaction in the environment.
03
Variations in column heights establish a rhythmic spatial flow for visitors.
04
Natural stone integrates seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
05
Use of locally sourced materials emphasizes sustainability and ecological sensitivity.

### Project Overview

Located in an urban or forested setting, the design aims to explore the complex relationship between nature, memory, and human experience. The framework emphasizes interaction with natural elements such as water and light, creating a contemplative space that serves as a memorial or commemoration of past events. The intent is to evoke themes of memory, loss, and tranquility through a carefully considered architectural response to the environment.

### Conceptual Framework and Spatial Layout

The design centers around the theme of reflection, both literal and metaphorical, inviting individuals to engage with their experiences and emotions. Water acts as a pivotal element, offering a sensory and temporal dimension that echoes the cyclical nature of life. The spatial arrangement employs a nonlinear path, encouraging exploration and slow navigation, which fosters deeper engagement with the space. Visitors are presented with opportunities for unexpected encounters that enhance their reflective journey.

### Materiality and Structural Elements

The project incorporates a range of materials to achieve durability and harmony with the natural surroundings. The use of concrete for structural components provides stability, while steel frames and fixtures offer weather resistance. Reflective glass surfaces enhance light interaction, and natural stone pathways integrate seamlessly into the landscape. The design features vertical columns of varying heights, which create a rhythmic spatial pattern reminiscent of a forest grove. These elements, along with diverse water features, facilitate a dynamic visual and auditory experience, engaging visitors continuously. Environmental considerations include the use of locally sourced materials and natural water management strategies, contributing to the project's sustainability.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy