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Shadow Play and Glass Façades Enhance Living Experience in a Natural Setting

Author:
Sofiia Trybakova
Shadow Play and Glass Façades Enhance Living Experience in a Natural Setting

Project in-detail

With its fluid glass façades that delicately frame the ever-shifting patterns of light and shadow, the design seamlessly integrates natural elements to create a reflective residential space within a serene forest setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates biophilic design principles, enhancing connection to nature through strategic use of light and shadow.
02
Constructed using charred wooden shingles, creating a protective layer while adding visual texture to the facade.
03
Features an innovative bent A-frame structure, allowing for dynamic interior spaces that adapt to seasonal light changes.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for both structural stability and sustainable building practices.
05
Landscaped with native vegetation that encourages biodiversity and complements the architectural form.
The architectural project "Transience" is a thoughtful exploration of the interplay between human habitat and the natural environment. Located within a lush deciduous forest, this design is a representation of how architecture can harmonize with its surroundings, creating a seamless connection between indoor living and the outdoor landscape. The primary intention of this project is to provide a sanctuary that embodies the beauty of shadows and the changing light throughout the day, thus promoting an awareness of time and the cyclical nature of life.

In terms of function, "Transience" serves as a residential space that accommodates the needs of its occupants while encouraging a deep appreciation of nature. The layout and design are carefully crafted to enhance interaction with the surrounding environment, allowing residents to experience the constantly shifting patterns created by sunlight filtering through the trees. The integration of glass and natural materials facilitates this relationship by inviting light into the home and blurring the boundaries between inside and outside.

The architectural approach taken in this project is notably unique. The form of the building defies conventional rectangular shapes and instead opts for an undulating design that mimics the organic lines of the forest. This organic structure not only provides a visually appealing aesthetic but also serves a functional purpose, allowing for the gradual flow of natural light into various rooms at different times of day. The building's layout encourages exploration and curiosity, with spaces designed to be occupied in ways that respond to the movements of light and shadow.

The materials selected for "Transience" are indicative of a commitment to sustainability and responsiveness to the environment. Expanses of glass feature prominently in the design, providing unobstructed views of the forest while allowing the interior spaces to be flooded with natural light. This transparency encourages occupants to engage with the fluctuating outdoor conditions and reflect on the ephemeral nature of shadows. In contrast, concrete is employed for structural stability, offering a grounded presence that counters the lightness of the glass facade. Additionally, natural fibers, such as climbing ivy, are used intentionally to soften the edges of the building and enhance its ecological integration, fostering a sense of unity between the structure and its setting.

The meticulous attention to interior experience further amplifies the project’s themes. Room configurations are designed to optimize the interplay between light and shadow, allowing inhabitants to perceive their space in a dynamic way. Each area of the home interacts with natural light, creating a spectrum of ambiances that shift throughout the day. This awareness not only deepens the connection to time but also encourages mindfulness in daily activities.

The landscaping surrounding "Transience" complements the architectural design and enriches the overall experience. Thoughtfully placed flora encourages movement and exploration, promoting interaction with the natural environment. The intentional arrangement of vegetation echoes the building's form, creating a cohesive and immersive atmosphere that celebrates the beauty of the site.

In summary, "Transience" exemplifies a refined architectural approach that embraces its context and fosters a meaningful relationship between occupants and the natural world. The thematic use of shadow, transparency, and materiality speaks to a broader narrative of harmony with nature. For those interested in further insights on this project, a detailed examination of architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will reveal the intricate thought and care involved in every aspect of this unique initiative. Exploring these elements can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the architectural ideas that shape "Transience."
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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