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Skylit Residence Embraces Light Sensitivity with Glass Walls

Authors:
梦溪 陈, 千寻 屠, 葆涵 蔡, 雨禾 潘
Skylit Residence Embraces Light Sensitivity with Glass Walls
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With carefully designed glass walls and strategically placed skylights, the residence offers a unique environment that prioritizes light sensitivity and natural engagement for its albino photographer occupants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed for light-sensitive albino photographers, the residence minimizes direct sunlight exposure.
02
Small skylights and slanted glass walls maximize natural light while maintaining visual comfort.
03
A dynamic courtyard allows occupants to engage with tidal changes and reflections from the sea.
04
Tactile guidance elements facilitate navigation in low-light conditions for residents.
05
The layout offers clear orientation through light, enhancing the daily living experience.

The seaside residence designed for a couple of albino photographers addresses the specific needs and sensitivities of its inhabitants. Located in a picturesque coastal setting, the design aims to create a living space that minimizes direct light while still maximizing the benefits of natural illumination. The overall concept focuses on effective light management, spatial layout, and a strong connection to the surrounding environment.

Light Management

The approach to light management involves the use of small skylights and slanted glass curtain walls. These elements allow for soft, diffused light to enter while avoiding the harshness of direct sun exposure. By reducing the number of traditional windows, the residence redefines how the occupants interact with their surroundings. This method not only protects the residents but also highlights the changing characteristics of light throughout the day.

Spatial Organization

The layout of the residence is carefully designed to enhance movement and orientation. In the morning, sunlight streams into the west corridor, guiding occupants from their bedrooms. As the day progresses, light shifts to illuminate the east corridor, directing people toward social areas such as the dining room. This organization of space fosters a natural flow and enhances the comfort of living in a home that responds to the rhythm of the day.

Connection to Nature

At the heart of the design is a courtyard that serves as a bridge between the indoors and the coastal setting. This outdoor space is designed to change with the tides, offering different views and experiences throughout the day. Water reflections play off the architectural forms, creating a thoughtful interaction of light and shadow that adds depth to daily life. The courtyard becomes a vital aspect of the residence, integrating it with the landscape.

Tactile Guidance

The residence incorporates tactile guidance to support the mobility of its light-sensitive residents. Careful attention to sensory elements helps the occupants navigate their home comfortably, even in low-light conditions. This design choice acknowledges the unique experiences of the residents, making the living environment both functional and considerate of their needs.

The interplay of natural light and carefully designed spaces draws attention to the reflections of the sea. The architectural design encourages an ongoing connection to nature, enriching the everyday experience of those who live within its walls.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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