Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Steel Modules Framing an Open Square Amid Natural Pools

Authors:
Elba Cambraia, Frederico Ribeiro, Natália Valladão
Steel Modules Framing an Open Square Amid Natural Pools

Project in-detail

Overlapping steel modules create a unique structural interplay that frames an open square and connects to natural pools, serving as a versatile museum for cultural exhibitions and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Overlapping steel modules create a dynamic structural composition.
02
An open square serves as the central gathering space for visitors.
03
Performance areas are integrated for community cultural events.
04
Mobility walls allow flexible exhibition configurations.
05
Landscaped pathways connect the indoor spaces with the natural environment.

The TELA Museum is a thoughtfully designed space that blends with its surroundings, defined by the nearby volcano, lake, and natural pools. Located in a landscape filled with unique geological features, the museum serves as a cultural center, supporting a variety of art exhibitions while promoting a strong connection between the visitors and the environment. The design encourages exploration and interaction, creating a dialogue between the building and the outside world.

Structural Configuration

The museum is built using a series of overlapping steel modules that create a distinct shape. This framework not only defines the exterior but also allows for flexible internal spaces. The layout spans multiple levels to facilitate easy movement, with elevators and stairs placed strategically for smooth circulation. This organization enables visitors to explore different exhibition areas comfortably.

Exhibition Spaces

On the Plaza Floor, there is a central open square surrounded by versatile exhibition halls. These halls feature both permanent and mobile walls, making it easy to adjust the space for various art displays. This adaptability enhances the visitor experience, allowing for a diverse range of installations that can be set up according to the needs of specific exhibitions.

Community Integration

A key aspect of the museum is its role in the community, reflected in the performance areas located on the northeastern side. This section includes an L-shaped stage, designed for cultural events and festivals. A private dressing room for performers adds functionality to the space, encouraging community engagement and highlighting the museum's importance as a cultural venue.

Outdoor Connection

The design extends into outdoor areas that invite visitors to engage with the natural environment. Pathways and landscaped spaces encourage exploration and relaxation, creating an inviting atmosphere. This connection between the building and its surroundings is emphasized by the transitions from indoor galleries to outdoor areas.

Large windows on the upper levels provide views of the landscape, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural beauty outside while benefiting from generous light in the exhibition spaces. The careful arrangement of these features enhances both the practical use of the museum and the overall experience for those who visit.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy