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Timber Gridshell Roof Integrating Human and Bat Habitats By a Lake

Authors:
Noor Khan, Aarez Ali, Aleena Khan, Huzaifah Fakher
Timber Gridshell Roof Integrating Human and Bat Habitats By a Lake

Project in-detail

A timber gridshell roof provides nesting spaces for bats while enhancing views and light within a residence that harmonizes human living with ecological sensitivity by a lake.
5 key facts about this project
01
Timber gridshell roof incorporates nesting zones for local bat populations.
02
Double-height studio features fully transparent walls for uninterrupted views.
03
Concave layout maximizes sunlight exposure and natural lighting.
04
Structures are placed in existing clearings to minimize environmental disruption.
05
Elevated spaces offer a direct connection between interior and surrounding nature.

The design integrates human and bat habitats within a residential setting, emphasizing ecological coexistence. Located beside a lake, the layout promotes connection with the surrounding nature while keeping environmental impact to a minimum. The overall concept seeks to create functional spaces that reflect the beauty of the landscape.

Layout and Functionality

The ground floor features a lounge and dining area, kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, barn, studio, studio mezzanine, store, and attic. This arrangement fosters accessibility and flow, inviting occupants to engage freely with their environment. The first floor includes additional lounges, kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, and studios, enhancing views and interaction with the outdoors.

Architectural Framework

At the heart of the design is a timber gridshell roof that serves multiple purposes. It provides structural support while also creating nesting spaces for bats. This choice highlights the importance of respecting both human and wildlife needs. The openness of the gridshell allows light and air to circulate freely while ensuring that animals have safe habitats nearby.

Spatial Configuration and Aesthetics

The layout emphasizes unobstructed views of the lake, which enhances the connection with nature. A notable feature is the double-height studio, which includes transparent walls that blur the line between inside and outside. This design choice promotes interaction with the landscape and offers a rich sensory experience for those who live and work within the space.

Environmental Considerations

All structures are strategically placed in existing clearings, which reduces disruption to the site. The project retains the foundation for the barn and well, demonstrating a responsible approach to land management. The concave shape of the layout encourages sunlight to reach all areas, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere while fostering a deeper relationship with the water.

The integration of living spaces with natural habitats results in a thoughtful architectural design. It reflects a balance between functionality and environmental sensitivity, allowing the built structure to coexist harmoniously with its surroundings.

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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

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