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Seamless Integration of Glass and Local Sandstone in a Canyon Residence

Authors:
Anita Ilona Vintila, Amalia Manea, Mihnea Oprescu
Seamless Integration of Glass and Local Sandstone in a Canyon Residence

Project in-detail

Curvilinear forms of local sandstone and expansive glass surfaces create a harmonious dialogue with the canyon landscape, providing a sustainable residence that emphasizes natural light and environmental connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear forms mimic the natural contours of the surrounding canyon.
02
Large glass panels enhance connectivity between indoor and outdoor spaces.
03
Local sandstone provides thermal efficiency and architectural harmony.
04
Secluded courtyard offers privacy while maintaining visual access to nature.
05
Ceiling openings create dynamic light patterns throughout the day.

## Project Overview
Located within a scenic canyon, the design exemplifies a thoughtful integration of architecture and landscape, tailored specifically for a couple. The architectural form features fluid, organic shapes that resonate with the canyon's natural topology and reflect the sun’s trajectory, fostering a strong relationship between the dwelling and its environment. This approach emphasizes a harmonious interaction that transcends visual appreciation, engaging inhabitants in a comprehensive sensory experience.

## Spatial Strategy
The design is organized around three distinct zones of movement. The front courtyard acts as an inviting entry point, designed to enhance natural light and encourage engagement with the surroundings. Core living areas feature a layout optimized for functionality while ensuring a clear connection to the landscape, highlighted by an opening in the ceiling that symbolizes unity with nature and enhances natural illumination. A tranquil back courtyard serves as an intimate retreat, sheltered by local rock formations, providing a private oasis that minimizes external disruptions.

## Material Selection
Material choices are integral to the project, establishing a strong relationship between the dwelling and its environment. Sandstone cladding mirrors the canyon's geological characteristics while offering thermal benefits. Floor-to-ceiling glass panels facilitate unobstructed canyon views and ample natural light, while wooden elements within the interior create warmth and comfort, balancing the sleekness of glass and stone. Concrete serves foundational and structural needs, ensuring durability while supporting the integration of organic forms in the overall design. The selection of local materials reflects a commitment to sustainability, minimizing environmental impact while enhancing the architectural narrative.

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

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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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