Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Transparent Façade Merging Glass and Stone in a Forest Retreat

Author:
Chloé Boulay
Transparent Façade Merging Glass and Stone in a Forest Retreat

Project in-detail

A seamless blend of glass and stone envelops this forest retreat, showcasing a transparent façade that enhances natural light while providing a serene setting for relaxation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Extensive use of a transparent façade enhances the connection with surrounding forest views.
02
Incorporates a tea workshop specifically designed for drying and packing herbal products.
03
Large windows in the bathrooms facilitate privacy while maximizing natural light.
04
The interior layout promotes adaptability for both social gatherings and quiet reflection.
05
Utilizes sustainable materials, including charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels.
The Glass House is a contemporary architectural project designed as a guest house nestled within a forested area known as Ozolini. This structure exemplifies a commitment to integrating architecture with its natural environment, facilitating a unique relationship between the occupants and the surrounding landscape. The design features a minimalist aesthetic, characterized by extensive use of glass, which provides transparency and a sense of openness.

The primary function of the Glass House is to serve as a retreat, encouraging relaxation, introspection, and social interaction among its occupants. The spatial arrangement supports various activities, from communal gatherings to private contemplation. The design effectively blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering a strong connection to nature.

Sustainable design practices are evident throughout the project. The architecture uses only a few key materials, notably glass, stone, wood, and concrete, which not only enhance the visual appeal but also complement the existing environment. The prominence of glass facilitates natural light penetration and unobstructed views, while the stone walls provide tactile warmth and a grounding element to the overall composition.

Unique Design Approaches

One distinguishing feature of the Glass House is its focus on experiential living. The configuration of spaces allows for an adaptable environment where occupants can engage with their surroundings actively. The communal kitchen and living areas are designed to promote social interaction, ensuring that leisure activities can be enjoyed in a spacious and inviting atmosphere.

Moreover, the incorporation of natural light into the bathrooms highlights an innovative approach to privacy and openness simultaneously. Large windows allow for ample illumination while maintaining comfort, making these areas feel connected to the landscape outside.

Architectural Elements and Details

The ground floor of the Glass House is dedicated to multi-functional areas, including a living room, kitchen, and workspace, along with access to outdoor terraces. This layout encourages fluid movement throughout the space and includes sections dedicated to specific functions, such as a tea-making workshop designated for drying and packing.

The first floor offers three bedrooms, each designed to optimize natural light and forest views. The architectural layout of these rooms ensures that at least one side faces the outdoor landscape, promoting a sense of tranquility and integration with nature.

In summary, the Glass House stands as a practical yet poetic embodiment of architectural design that respects its local context while enhancing the occupant's experience. Its focus on sustainability, thoughtful spatial arrangement, and innovative use of materials distinguishes it within the realm of contemporary architecture.

For those interested in exploring the nuances of this project further, we encourage you to review the architectural plans, sections, and design details that encapsulate the core ideas of the Glass House.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy