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Terracotta Vaults Framing Community Space in a Natural Landscape

Authors:
Bartu Tort, Allegra Keys, Ellis Shiels
Terracotta Vaults Framing Community Space in a Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

The use of terracotta barrel vaults and a perforated wall creates a harmonious blend of structure and landscape, offering a multifunctional community space that fosters artistic engagement and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Terracotta barrel vaults are integrated into the hillside to minimize visual impact.
02
The structure features a unique perforated wall that frames views of the surrounding landscape.
03
Designed to foster community interaction, the project includes dedicated spaces for local artwork.
04
The use of white steel columns enhances natural light throughout the interior spaces.
05
Existing trees on the site were preserved, reinforcing the connection between the building and nature.

The design in Puebla de Fantova integrates closely with the hillside landscape. It emphasizes minimizing visual disruption while creating a functional space for artists and visitors. The approach highlights the connection between constructed forms and nature, offering both a communal area for locals and a retreat for those seeking inspiration.

Conceptual Framework
The design is centered on the relationship between buildings and the landscape. By carving the structures into the hillside, the project limits their visibility from the village, enhancing the natural view. This method respects the site's contours and aims to preserve its scenic beauty, allowing the surroundings to remain untouched and inviting.

Architectural Elements
Key features include terracotta barrel vaults that draw on traditional Catalan construction. These vaults rest on white steel columns that provide support while allowing ample natural light to fill the interior spaces. The blend of materials results in an environment that feels open and connected to the natural setting. Visitors can experience the balance of structure and light that enhances their time at the site.

Community Engagement
Creating spaces that encourage interaction was an important aspect of the design. The proposal includes a café and areas for exhibiting local artwork within a gallery and a sculpture garden. This focus aims to strengthen community ties and provide a place for cultural exchange. The design addresses the need for social spaces, allowing residents and visitors to connect through art and conversation.

Sustainability and Materiality
Sustainability informs the overall design, with efforts to keep existing trees and use locally sourced materials. The terracotta chosen for the vaults and the permeable wall reflects a commitment to traditional practices while ensuring the project remains environmentally considerate. This integration of materials promotes a sense of unity, urging visitors to engage with both the art and the landscape.

The perforated terracotta wall not only provides structure but also frames views of outdoor art, enhancing the experience of visitors. This design invites guests to appreciate both the natural and artistic elements surrounding the site, creating a space where art and nature coexist harmoniously.

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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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