Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Thermal Clay Blocks and Elevated Structure Creating Community Wellness Amid Natural Surroundings

Author:
Sergio Yoldi
Thermal Clay Blocks and Elevated Structure Creating Community Wellness Amid Natural Surroundings

Project in-detail

Utilizing thermal clay blocks and an elevated structure, the design fosters community engagement and wellness while seamlessly integrating into the natural landscape of Hansen Park, providing a dedicated retreat for individuals facing serious health challenges.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes thermal clay blocks for thermal regulation and energy efficiency.
02
Integrates an elevated base to enhance temperature control and reduce energy use.
03
Features a sloped roof design for optimal natural lighting throughout the interiors.
04
Incorporates generous window placements to maximize ventilation and connection to nature.
05
Strategically avoids disrupting existing trees, preserving the ecological landscape.

## Overview

Krakow Oxygen Home is located in Krakow, Poland, within Hansen Park, an area known for its abundant greenery and recreational spaces. Designed as a retreat for individuals facing lung cancer and other respiratory diseases, the facility aims to create a supportive environment that promotes wellness and community integration. The architectural approach focuses on functionality while enhancing the quality of life for its occupants through careful consideration of spatial organization and environmental context.

## Environmental Integration

The project emphasizes its relationship with the natural surroundings, particularly the existing vegetation of Hansen Park. Careful site planning ensures that the design preserves the ecological integrity by avoiding disruption to established trees and their root systems. The building footprint adheres strictly to local zoning laws to minimize environmental impact and maintain the park's ecological balance, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable development.

## Architectural Form and Materials

The structure features a distinct sloped roof that is both visually appealing and conducive to maximizing natural daylight, thereby reducing reliance on artificial lighting. Windows are strategically placed to facilitate natural ventilation and create uplifting interior environments.

Material selection prioritizes sustainability and includes white ceramic tiles, structural concrete, thermal insulation components, and natural wood. These choices are intended to foster a healthy indoor atmosphere, minimizing the presence of toxic substances and ensuring comfort for the occupants. The elevated base of the building contributes to temperature regulation, enhancing year-round comfort.

## Internal Organization

The interior is thoughtfully organized to accommodate both communal and private areas. The ground floor includes a reception area and community room for gatherings, along with consultation and first aid rooms that provide healthcare services. Utility and relaxation spaces further enhance the daily experience for residents.

On the upper floor, additional consulting rooms and emotional support areas are complemented by a terrace designed to encourage outdoor interaction. This spatial organization fosters a sense of community while offering private spaces for individual reflection and healing.

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