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Rope Panels and Natural Light in a Landscape Observatory

Authors:
Corentin Favreau, Maxime Terriac
Rope Panels and Natural Light in a Landscape Observatory

Project in-detail

The use of rope panels to filter natural light creates a unique visual experience in a landscape observatory designed to engage visitors with the surrounding environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Unique rope panel facade allows natural light modulation throughout the building.
02
Features distinct 360-degree views from multiple levels to enhance visitor engagement.
03
Incorporates a specialized water recuperation system for sustainability.
04
Openwork brick walls provide texture and allow light penetration.
05
Central concrete core supports a double helix staircase for efficient circulation.

The Kurgi Farm Observatory is located in a vibrant landscape filled with colorful textures and dramatic views. Designed to serve multiple purposes, it includes spaces for observation, dining, reading, and exhibitions. The design concept focuses on blending the building into its natural environment, showcasing a patchwork style that enhances its visual appeal while inviting interaction with the surroundings.

Facade Composition

The observatory features a facade made up of six different panels that transition in color from dark to light. This arrangement mimics the natural hues found in the landscape, helping the structure to integrate visually. The design effectively controls light, allowing it to change throughout the day. As sunlight passes through the facade, varying patterns of light and shadow create a dynamic atmosphere within the spaces.

Spatial Organization

Inside, the observatory is organized in a way that prioritizes usability and flow. It incorporates an observatory, a canteen, a library, and a reception area, all arranged within a straightforward layout. A central vertical core provides access via elevators and a double "Chambord" staircase. This core facilitates movement between levels and encourages visitors to explore the building, making it more inviting for users.

Structural Elements

The building's structure relies on a concrete core, ensuring stability and strength. This core supports various activities throughout the observatory, from public spaces to private areas. Each floor has concrete crowns that define the different spaces, providing a feeling of structure while also offering clarity as visitors navigate. The warm touch of wooden flooring contrasts nicely with the concrete, creating a balanced experience.

Sustainability Features

A water recuperation system plays an important role in the observatory's design, aligning with a commitment to sustainability. This system helps reduce the use of resources and aids in the building's overall efficiency. Openwork brick walls provide both texture and natural light, enhancing the overall experience inside.

At the top, a well-considered roof design collects rainwater through the central core and supports the observatory’s sustainable practices. This detail reflects the project’s aim of creating a close relationship between the building and its landscape, demonstrating how architecture can coexist with nature in a meaningful way.

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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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