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Translucent Polycarbonate and Elevated Wood Structure Enhancing Community Living by the Lake

Author:
Sang Dae Lee
Translucent Polycarbonate and Elevated Wood Structure Enhancing Community Living by the Lake

Project in-detail

Elevated on a pier foundation, the structure integrates translucent polycarbonate and locally sourced timber, creating an adaptable living space designed to foster community interaction while respecting the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design minimizes ecological impact by allowing natural wetlands to thrive beneath the structure.
02
Translucent polycarbonate panels enhance natural lighting while maintaining thermal insulation.
03
Flexible layout incorporates semi-open spaces for seamless indoor-outdoor living.
04
Utilizes local timber to reduce carbon footprint and promote regional sourcing.
05
Incorporates rainwater harvesting and innovative water management systems for sustainability.

### Project Overview

The Interstice House is located on the shores of Lake Asnen in Sweden, within the confines of Asnen National Park. This architectural design focuses on enhancing the relationship between human habitation and the natural world. Access to the site is primarily via boat or kayak, which underscores the project's commitment to integrating with its pristine environment while emphasizing both livability and environmental context.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The design employs a minimalist aesthetic and seeks to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. The incorporation of translucent polycarbonate panels maximizes natural light and fosters a spatial connection to the landscape. Key design elements include flexible semi-open areas that facilitate smooth transitions between interior and exterior environments. Operable doors and transparent walls support varied interactions with nature, allowing occupants to experience the surrounding landscape according to their preferences. Furthermore, communal areas are strategically designed to promote social interaction and outdoor activities, reinforcing community bonds among occupants.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Material selection for the Interstice House reflects a commitment to both aesthetic and environmental goals. The structure primarily utilizes plywood and timber for warmth and connection to nature, while translucent polycarbonate enhances light penetration and insulation, allowing for a dynamic interplay with the surrounding environment. Concrete serves as the foundation material for the elevated pier, minimizing ecological impact, and aluminum is employed for its lightweight and durable properties. Sustainability is addressed through the integration of photovoltaic panels for energy generation, as well as systems for rainwater harvesting and wastewater management, supporting the project's overall ecological objectives.

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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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