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Rusted Steel Roofs and High Ceilings Create Tranquil Living Spaces Surrounded by Nature

Authors:
Szeharlaigne Yen, Michael Sexton
Rusted Steel Roofs and High Ceilings Create Tranquil Living Spaces Surrounded by Nature

Project in-detail

With a rusted steel roof and soaring ceilings that invite the surrounding forest indoors, the design seamlessly blends natural elements to create a serene dwelling that fosters community and connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project features a rusted steel roof that enhances durability while integrating with the natural landscape.
02
An indoor herbal garden promotes self-sufficiency and a connection to wellness.
03
The open-plan layout encourages flexible use of space, adapting to various communal and private functions.
04
High-strength concrete provides structural support, allowing for expansive high ceilings and unique spatial experiences.
05
Large, strategically placed windows create a seamless connection between interior spaces and the surrounding forest.
The architectural project "Abode" represents a thoughtfully designed living space that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while embracing contemporary architecture. Situated in a verdant landscape, this structure prioritizes a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor environments, making the most of its tranquil setting. It symbolizes a dedication to creating spaces that not only serve as homes but also respect and enhance the natural world.

Functionally, the project serves as a dwelling, catering to the various needs of its residents through an innovative mix of private and communal spaces. The design promotes an efficient layout that emphasizes livability and interaction with the outdoor environment. The open-plan concept integrates areas for cooking, socializing, and relaxation, encouraging engagement among occupants and fostering a sense of community. This approach resonates with a growing interest in sustainable living, as it allows for adaptable use of space that can respond to different activities and social dynamics.

The design incorporates a series of gabled roofs that evoke traditional architectural forms while providing both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits. The sloping roofs facilitate rainwater runoff and help to create spacious interiors with high ceilings, contributing to a sense of openness. Large, strategically placed windows enhance the connection to the surrounding landscape, allowing natural light to fill the interiors and providing stunning views of the greenery outside.

Attention to materiality is a significant aspect of this project. The selection of reclaimed steel for the roofing ensures durability while offering a weathered aesthetic that complements the natural surroundings. Wooden paneling brings warmth to the structure, creating a comforting ambiance that is enhanced by the high-strength concrete framework providing structural integrity. The use of stone within the fireplace area connects the interior to the outdoor environment, effectively bridging the gap between the two spaces, while large glazing features allow for unobstructed views of nature, merging the boundaries of inside and outside.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project, particularly in the treatment of communal and private spaces. The layout is deliberate, with designated areas for social interaction as well as private retreats, ensuring that residents can engage with one another while also finding solace when needed. The inclusion of functional spaces such as a tea-making area and an indoor herbal garden further underscores the project’s commitment to self-sufficiency and wellness, positioning it not merely as a residence, but as a nurturing environment for creativity and cultural practices.

Through the integration of biophilic design principles, the project fosters an appreciation for nature, demonstrating how architectural decisions can enhance mental wellbeing and overall quality of life. By allowing occupants to engage with nature through indoor gardens and outdoor patios, "Abode" embodies the principle that a home should reflect its environment while catering to the needs of its residents.

Overall, "Abode" illustrates a balanced approach to modern architecture, thoughtfully blending functional living space with an ethos of sustainability and connection to nature. For those interested in deeper architectural insights, exploring elements such as architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas related to this project can provide a more comprehensive understanding of its concepts and execution. This exploration reveals how architecture can enrich our lives while respecting the intricate tapestry of the natural world.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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