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Timber Arches and Retractable Skylights in a Community Retreat

Author:
Ana Ene
Timber Arches and Retractable Skylights in a Community Retreat

Project in-detail

Timber arches and large retractable skylights define a communal space that fosters interaction and privacy, creating a residential retreat inspired by the qualities of the grape vine.
5 key facts about this project
01
Timber arches provide structural support while enhancing aesthetic appeal.
02
Retractable skylights allow for natural light and ventilation on demand.
03
Large swinging doors create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
04
Rooms are strategically positioned for unique views and privacy.
05
Sustainable materials are selected to minimize the carbon footprint.

FOGLIA is designed to reflect the qualities of the grape vine, combining a natural aesthetic with functional living spaces. Set in a serene landscape, the design encourages an interaction between residents while providing personal retreats. The overall concept takes cues from the shape and characteristics of the vine, creating a sense of connection to the surroundings.

Communal Space Design

At the heart of FOGLIA lies a large communal space featuring ample openings and natural light. Large swinging doors and a retractable skylight are key elements that allow air to flow freely and light to filter through. This area serves as a gathering spot, blending indoor and outdoor environments. It is designed for social interactions and offers a comfortable setting for residents to connect.

Structural Form and Layout

The structure draws inspiration from the graceful arch of the grape vine. A timber arch is paired with a concrete foundation to provide strength and form. This design choice integrates natural shapes into the building, creating a harmonious relationship with the environment. The arch is not just for support; it adds a gentle elegance to the overall design that aligns with the site’s landscape.

Privacy and Individual Spaces

The layout emphasizes both communal and private experiences. Each room is carefully placed to offer unique views while still ensuring privacy for residents. This thoughtful arrangement creates a sense of balance between shared spaces and personal areas, allowing individuals to come together or retreat as they choose.

Sustainable Material Selection

Sustainability is an important aspect of FOGLIA, reflected in the choice of materials. Concrete and wood are used not only for their durability but also for their environmental benefits. Wood plays a significant role in lowering the building's carbon footprint. It enhances the design's natural appeal while meeting the functional needs of the structure.

The sliding wooden panels in the communal area create a tactile connection to the environment, allowing residents to engage with their surroundings. This element enhances adaptability, making the space responsive to the needs of the community.

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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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