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Translucent Membranes and Local Timber Define a Community-Centered Residential Space

Translucent Membranes and Local Timber Define a Community-Centered Residential Space
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Utilizing translucent membranes and local timber, the design creates interconnected social spaces that enhance community interaction within a modern residential framework.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes translucent membranes to optimize natural light and create open spaces.
02
Incorporates local timber to reinforce environmental sustainability and connect with the region.
03
Features a bent A-frame design, promoting unique spatial dynamics and visual interest.
04
Employs interlocking volumes to enhance community connectivity and interaction.
05
Charred wooden shingles serve both aesthetic and protective purposes, ensuring durability.

### Overview

The project located at Cornell House in Ithaca, New York, seeks to innovate within the realm of residential architecture by reinterpreting living spaces as a series of interconnected frames. The intent is to foster community interaction and personal introspection through the exploration of dynamic forms and spatial relationships. By drawing inspiration from the narrative contexts found in sitcoms, the design symbolizes familiar domestic environments through its structural composition.

### Architectural Form and Spatial Configuration

The design features fluid, shell-like canopy structures that suggest adaptability and movement. Transparent roof membranes facilitate natural light penetration, merging indoor and outdoor spaces to enhance the living experience. Complementary angular wooden frames contribute both structural integrity and aesthetic complexity.

The interior layout encourages organic flow, blending communal and private spaces effectively. Centralized areas such as kitchens and living rooms facilitate interaction, while private rooms are positioned for tranquility and privacy. This configuration supports various social scenarios, embodying the project’s vision of dynamic living environments.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Key materials include a transparent membrane for the roof, which diffuses light and creates an ethereal atmosphere. Locally sourced timber provides warmth and a connection to the site's geography, while glass and acrylic panels in the façade enhance visual connectivity with the surroundings. Concrete forms the foundation and structural elements, ensuring durability.

The project emphasizes sustainability by employing local materials and adaptive forms that respond to environmental conditions. The use of transparent materials improves energy efficiency by maximizing daylight and supports a dialogue about indoor-outdoor living. Technological advancements in architectural visualization also play a significant role, allowing for detailed contextual representations to guide the design process.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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