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Spherical Structure Emphasizing Thermal Performance With Clay And Glass Integration

Authors:
Joyce Kimi Nakano, Laura Helena Siebold
Spherical Structure Emphasizing Thermal Performance With Clay And Glass Integration

Project in-detail

A dome-shaped structure utilizing locally sourced clay and expansive glass elements optimizes natural light and ventilation, creating a seamless interaction between indoor and outdoor environments for residential living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Dome structure optimizes natural ventilation and light through strategic openings.
02
Local clay bricks provide thermal mass, enhancing energy efficiency.
03
Central indoor garden integrates biophilic design principles for improved well-being.
04
Geometric shape reduces wind load while maximizing spatial harmony.
05
Large glass panels create strong connections to the surrounding landscape.
Abóboda is an architectural project situated in Brazil, characterized by its dome-like structure that integrates seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Designed to maximize the benefits of natural light and facilitate sustainability, this project focuses on creating spaces that reflect a balance between indoor and outdoor experiences. Its location at the Tropic of Capricorn informs the design approach, emphasizing natural ventilation and thermal comfort through intelligent use of geometry and materials.

Geometric Design Approach
The dome shape of Abóboda serves not only as a distinct architectural feature but also enhances the building's structural efficiency. This form minimizes wind load and optimizes thermal performance by allowing sunlight to be captured effectively throughout the day. The design incorporates strategically placed openings, creating an interior landscape where natural light can filter through, offering dynamic lighting conditions that change throughout the day.

The integration of a central indoor garden exemplifies a biophilic design approach. This feature encourages a connection to nature, providing residents with an engaging environment that promotes well-being. The garden serves multiple purposes, acting as a natural air purifier while also enhancing the aesthetic quality of the indoor atmosphere.

Sustainable Material Choices
A key aspect of Abóboda's design is its thoughtful selection of materials. Local clay bricks form the primary building material, chosen for their thermal mass properties, which help regulate interior temperatures. Large glass panels are incorporated to minimize the barrier between the interior spaces and the outside world, enhancing daylight access and views of the surrounding landscape. This careful material selection supports the project's sustainability goals while ensuring durability and resilience.

Furthermore, vegetation plays a crucial role in the overall experience of the project. The landscaping is designed to create a harmonious relationship between the built and natural environments, whose footprint extends into the architectural narrative of Abóboda.

The architectural plans, sections, and designs of this project are meticulously planned to support these concepts, highlighting the detailed interplay between structure and environment. For deeper insights into the architectural strategies employed in Abóboda, consider reviewing the architectural plans and sections to fully appreciate the innovative ideas realized in this project. Exploration of additional architectural elements further illustrates the thoughtful integration of sustainability and design within the context of Brazilian environmental conditions.
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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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