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Silhouette Engagement in Residential Spaces

Authors:
Ilrang Hwang, Juho Han, Nahyun Shin, Jeongmin Ju
Silhouette Engagement in Residential Spaces

Project in-detail

Using silhouettes to create visual connections and promote acceptance, the design integrates layered spaces that enhance individuality within a shared residential environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes silhouettes to foster visual connections between residents.
02
Incorporates a bent A-frame design for unique spatial dynamics.
03
Features layered areas that define personal boundaries within shared spaces.
04
Includes an entrance designed for separate access, enhancing individual experiences.
05
Reflects modern relationship dynamics through thoughtful spatial organization.

The design focuses on the complexities of personal relationships within a home. Set in a contemporary urban environment, it aims to improve the living experience for couples by promoting acceptance and adjustment to each other's needs. The concept of "Adjustment and Acceptance of Silhouettes" plays an important role here. It highlights how spaces can be arranged to allow for individual boundaries while still encouraging connection between partners.

Conceptual Framework

A layered approach organizes the space into three clear layers. The first layer establishes initial boundaries, defining personal spaces where individuals can retreat and reflect. The second layer uses distance effectively, creating opportunities for interaction while ensuring a sense of personal identity is preserved. The third layer introduces the idea of bending boundaries, which allows partners to engage with one another fluidly, adapting their interactions as needed.

Spatial Configuration

The layout includes specific areas designed for different levels of privacy and interaction. The entrance allows couples to arrive separately, promoting individuality as they move into shared spaces. Important areas like the kitchen, bedroom, and living room function as spaces of acceptance, where both partners can acknowledge each other’s presence. The design enables soft visual connections, allowing silhouettes of each partner to be seen from a distance without intruding on privacy.

Integration of Individuality

Individual hobbies and workspaces are thoughtfully integrated into the layout. This aspect supports personal interests while also accommodating shared experiences. The arrangement creates a balance where each person’s autonomy is respected within a collaborative living environment. By providing spaces that recognize both personal activities and partnership interactions, the design underscores the significance of maintaining distinct identities in a shared home.

With architectural elements focused on transparency and lightness, the silhouettes enhance both light and spatial perception. These design choices promote an atmosphere that encourages interaction without compromising personal boundaries. Ultimately, the work contributes to a living experience that values both connection and individuality, creating a thoughtful environment for couples.

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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

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