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Tectonic Pathways with Reinforced Concrete and Natural Soil Integration

Authors:
Lidia Danil, Irina Coraga, Laurentiu Milotoiu
Tectonic Pathways with Reinforced Concrete and Natural Soil Integration

Project in-detail

Built between tectonic plates, the structure incorporates reinforced concrete walls and a thermal blanket of natural soil, creating an environment that harmonizes with the landscape while serving as a space for public and private interactions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates thermal comfort with a geothermal heat source beneath the building.
02
Utilizes modular pathways with steel grid panels for minimal visual disruption.
03
Features reinforced concrete walls that create alcove-like interior settings.
04
Positioned at the intersection of two tectonic plates, enhancing geological experience.
05
Maximizes natural light through strategic interior layout inspired by cave formations.

The design is situated between the Eurasian and American tectonic plates, taking advantage of a unique geological setting that defines its character. The overall intention is to create spaces that balance public engagement with private reflection. The building encourages movement through fluid pathways that connect users to the landscape, creating a rich visual and sensory experience.

Spatial Organization
The layout responds directly to the existing topography, forming a design that leads users on a journey through the site. The structure’s geometry rises from the ground, acting as a visual marker that draws attention to the building. This design uses flowing spaces, reminiscent of natural caves, where movement feels both guided and intuitive, allowing for exploration within the architecture.

Material Use
Material choices help to support the project's aims. Steel grid panels are incorporated into the pathways, designed to minimize their impact on views while serving functional purposes. Tiled reinforced concrete walls provide strength and create a clear divide between inside and outside. These walls enhance the spatial experience, offering alcove-like environments that shift with light and accommodate users comfortably.

Environmental Integration
A thermal blanket formed from natural soil helps with temperature control, linking the interior comfort to the geothermal heat source below. This connection reminds users of the geological context while being energy efficient. The project respects the surrounding landscape, applying a noninvasive approach that promotes sustainability and interaction with nature.

Attention to light is a key feature within the design. Its interplay creates dynamic atmospheres throughout the interior, resembling the natural qualities found in cave environments. This element enhances the experience of moving between different spaces, connecting both geological features and the constructed environment in a meaningful way.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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