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Translucent Glass Facades and Birch Interiors Create a Harmonious Retreat Within Natural Surroundings

Authors:
Rachel Teo, Tivon Kwa
Translucent Glass Facades and Birch Interiors Create a Harmonious Retreat Within Natural Surroundings

Project in-detail

Characterized by its expansive glass facades and warm Birch wood interiors, the design harmoniously blends with the surrounding landscape, creating a serene retreat that encourages personal reflection and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural stability and sustainability.
02
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and panoramic views.
03
Incorporates extensive glass facades to seamlessly connect indoor and outdoor spaces.
04
Includes charred wooden shingles, offering both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
05
Designed to promote community interaction through expansive communal areas and flexible outdoor spaces.
The architectural project titled "Stillness in Motion" is a thoughtful design that seeks to bridge the influence of its natural surroundings with the functional needs of its users. Situated in the scenic context of CapeKalk, the structure is a response to the local landscape characterized by its rich vegetation and dynamic waterways. The project embodies the concept of duality—where movement and stillness coexist harmoniously, reflecting the constant change of the natural environment while providing serene spaces for contemplation and relaxation.

The primary function of this architecture is to serve as a retreat that fosters connection with nature and promotes well-being among its occupants. It is designed to accommodate communal activities while also providing private spaces tailored for activities such as reading, yoga, or reflection. The project's layout encourages interaction among users, with expansive communal areas on the ground floor leading to more intimate settings on the upper levels. This strategic organization enhances the residential experience, allowing for both social gatherings and personal solitude.

Distinct elements of the design include the use of reinforced concrete paired with warm Birch wood interiors, which establishes a balance between structural integrity and inviting aesthetics. The concrete provides durability, while the wood adds a layer of warmth, making the spaces feel organic and inviting. Expansive glass panels dominate the facades, promoting transparency and blending indoor and outdoor environments seamlessly. This design choice not only maximizes natural light but also fosters a connection to the surrounding landscape, allowing occupants to engage visually and physically with their environment.

Unique approaches within the design include the incorporation of biophilic elements that focus on enhancing the sensory experience of users as they navigate through the space. The thoughtful arrangement of windows and terraces not only draws nature indoors but also creates dynamic visual corridors that change with the time of day and season. The spiral stairwell serves as both a functional connection between levels and a sculptural feature, exemplifying the marriage of utility and artistic expression.

Landscaping plays a vital role in this project, with outdoor multipurpose areas designed to integrate with the built environment and encourage various activities. The seamless connection between indoor living areas and the exterior promotes an active lifestyle, allowing occupants to enjoy the fresh air and natural surroundings. The architecture is designed to inspire relaxation and encourage a fulfilling interaction with nature, reinforcing the project's guiding principle of bringing stillness into the experience of motion.

The thoughtful integration of architectural ideas rooted in the specific context of CapeKalk positions this project as an example of how architecture can play an essential role in personal and communal well-being. The balance of communal and private space, along with intentional material choices and biophilic elements, reflects a nuanced understanding of user experience and environmental sensitivity.

For those interested in further understanding the nuances of this architectural endeavor, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide deeper insights into the thoughtful decisions made throughout the design process. This project invites you to appreciate the dialogue between architecture and nature, encouraging a reflection on how built environments can enhance our relationship with the world around us.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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