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Suspended Living Spaces with Curvilinear Glass and Lightweight Concrete Overlooking Nature

Author:
Michael Barnard
Suspended Living Spaces with Curvilinear Glass and Lightweight Concrete Overlooking Nature

Project in-detail

Suspended above a rugged cliff, the curvilinear glass pods of lightweight concrete create an organic living environment that harmonizes with nature, offering flexible and communal spaces for residents to engage with their stunning surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates double-curved glass to enhance natural light and views while maintaining thermal efficiency.
02
Suspension from a central hexagonal core allows the pods to create a sense of floating above the landscape.
03
Sustainable photovoltaic solar panels are integrated into the roof design for energy independence.
04
Each living pod is oriented to optimize solar gain and minimize energy consumption throughout the year.
05
The arrangement encourages communal interaction while providing private, adaptable living spaces.
The Woven Totem Pods project exemplifies contemporary architecture’s potential to integrate seamlessly with the natural environment while providing functional living spaces. This project features an innovative design approach that emphasizes vertical living and forms a unique interaction with the surrounding landscape. The architecture is characterized by its elegant, pod-like structures that rise above a cliff, presenting a harmonious balance between the built environment and nature.

At its core, the Woven Totem Pods represents a commitment to sustainability and architectural innovation. The design aims to enhance the living experience while fostering a deep connection with nature. Each pod is strategically oriented to take advantage of expansive views and maximize natural light. The architecture is not merely a shelter; it serves as a platform for interaction with the surroundings, encouraging residents to engage with the landscape.

Functionally, the Woven Totem Pods are designed to accommodate various living arrangements, ranging from private residences to communal spaces. The central hexagonal concrete core is essential to the structure, serving as the primary access point and housing vital services such as staircases and elevators. This core supports the floating pods, which are suspended from it, creating visual interest and facilitating a sense of openness within the project. The efficient use of space within the pods allows for versatile layouts that can adapt to the diverse needs of residents.

A key element of the design is its materiality. The project employs a combination of steel, lightweight concrete, and double-curved glass, enhancing both structural integrity and aesthetics. The steel framework provides a robust foundation, while lightweight concrete minimizes overall mass, ensuring the architectural design remains feasible and sustainable. The extensive use of double-curved glass not only enriches the visual experience but also enhances energy efficiency by allowing natural light to penetrate deep into the interiors. Such an approach reflects a contemporary understanding of the relationship between architecture and environmental conditions.

Another distinctive aspect of the Woven Totem Pods is its commitment to sustainability. The incorporation of photovoltaic solar panels on the roof highlights an emphasis on energy independence. By harnessing solar power, the structure promotes an off-grid lifestyle, reducing reliance on conventional energy sources. This aspect aligns with broader trends in architecture that prioritize environmental stewardship and resiliency.

The arrangement of the pods creates a unique interplay of spaces, where private areas coexist with communal functions. Outdoor terraces extend the living space, allowing residents to enjoy their surroundings further and fostering a sense of community among the occupants. This thoughtful integration of indoor and outdoor spaces is an essential aspect of the architectural design, promoting outdoor activities and social interaction.

The overall aesthetic of the Woven Totem Pods reflects a contemporary sensibility that values simplicity and elegance. The design features soft, organic forms that mimic natural systems, creating an architectural language that resonates with its environment. By prioritizing human experience and environmental connection, the project stands as a testament to the possibilities within modern architecture.

In summary, the Woven Totem Pods project showcases a sophisticated understanding of design and function that merges sustainability with innovative architectural approaches. The project’s emphasis on natural integration, flexible living spaces, and energy efficiency highlights contemporary architectural trends that seek to align the built environment with natural landscapes. Readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas of the Woven Totem Pods to fully appreciate the nuanced design strategies employed throughout this remarkable project. Exploring these elements can provide valuable insights into the future direction of architecture as it increasingly aims to harmonize with nature.
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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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