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Translucent Glass Facades and Thermal Concrete Structures Create a Harmonious Living Environment

Authors:
Jun Hyung Song, Yi Jeongmin
Translucent Glass Facades and Thermal Concrete Structures Create a Harmonious Living Environment

Project in-detail

Translucent glass facades and thermal concrete interact to enhance natural light penetration, creating flexible living spaces that foster community engagement in a serene residential environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent glass facades facilitate optimal light conditions throughout the day.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and enhanced durability.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes space while integrating with the natural landscape.
04
A central courtyard encourages social interactions among residents.
05
Thermal concrete construction ensures effective insulation and energy efficiency.
The architectural project "Shape of Light" integrates the relationship between natural light and spatial configuration. The design represents an exploration of how light influences human experience within built environments. It focuses on creating adaptable spaces that respond to varying light conditions throughout the day, enhancing usability and comfort.

The primary function of the project is to provide a living space that fosters interaction and connection with both the interior and exterior environments. The spatial organization reflects a non-linear flow, with interconnected areas that promote communal engagement, centered around a central courtyard. This design encourages social interaction among occupants while maintaining a connection to nature.

Spatial Configuration and Light Interaction
The layout features a central courtyard that acts as both a visual and social focal point. Surrounding this space, the design incorporates various rooms that maximize natural light exposure, using large glass facades to facilitate seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor areas. This arrangement allows occupants to experience different light effects and atmospheres throughout the day, driven by the sun's movement.

The unique design approach focuses on how light penetrates architectural elements, shaping internal experiences. Specific sections of the building are designed to allow varying intensities of light, creating zones for different activities. For instance, brightly lit areas are optimized for social gatherings, while more subdued spaces offer tranquility and contemplation. The thoughtful arrangement of walls, openings, and surfaces ensures that light enhances the desired atmosphere within each room.

Materiality and Integration with Nature
Materials play a significant role in achieving the project's objectives. The extensive use of concrete provides durability and an understated aesthetic, effectively framing the structure against the surrounding landscape. The glass facades serve to connect occupants with the exterior environment, blurring the line between inside and outside. The potential integration of wood elements offers warmth, contrasting with the cooler surfaces of concrete and glass.

By incorporating natural features such as strategically positioned trees, the project promotes a harmonious relationship with its surroundings. These elements not only serve aesthetic purposes but also contribute to improved air quality and noise reduction. The combination of organic and constructed materials enhances the overall experience, providing a peaceful and inviting atmosphere.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the architectural design, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for additional details. Reviewing architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas will provide deeper insights into the design strategies and unique elements that define "Shape of Light."
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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