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Tuned Shadows With Tinted Glass and Flexible Spaces in a Contemporary Family Home

Authors:
Yoon ju Choi, Hyun min Lee
Tuned Shadows With Tinted Glass and Flexible Spaces in a Contemporary Family Home

Project in-detail

Characterized by dynamic shadow play and refined spatial adaptability through the use of fabric and tinted glass, the design creates an inviting home that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while prioritizing contemporary living needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a unique shadow hierarchy that categorizes light play throughout the day, enriching spatial experiences.
02
Flexibility in the layout allows residents to adapt room functions based on personal needs and daily activities.
03
Use of refined fabric elements allows for a dynamic adjustment of light intensity and quality within the home.
04
Tinted glass features enhance both visual privacy and the aesthetic quality of the indoor environment.
05
The structure combines regional materials with innovative techniques, promoting both sustainability and local craftsmanship.
The architectural project “Tuning Shadows: The Home of Shadows” located in Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea, presents a thoughtful exploration of the relationship between architecture and light. This design considers how shadows, rather than being mere byproducts of physical structures, can be essential elements that influence spatial experiences within a home. The project epitomizes a living space that responds to the dynamic qualities of sunlight and shadow throughout the day, ultimately redefining traditional notions of residential environments.

At its core, the project represents a harmonious interaction between nature and the built environment. It acknowledges the passage of time and the changing qualities of light, allowing these factors to play a crucial role in the daily life of its inhabitants. The thoughtful orientation of the residence facilitates maximum exposure to natural light while also framing shadow patterns that vary both in color and depth, providing an ever-evolving atmosphere within the home.

The design functions as a multi-faceted living space that prioritizes comfort, adaptability, and aesthetics. Specific areas of the residence are designated for distinct daily activities, with careful consideration given to how sunlight casts shadows across each space. This results in an innovative layering of experiences; for example, the eastern areas of the home are designed to embrace the morning light, fostering a vibrant environment for areas designated for work or social interaction. In contrast, the western spaces, intended for rest and relaxation, benefit from gentler evening light that creates a tranquil ambiance enhanced by softer shadows.

Materials play a vital role in conveying the project’s architectural vision. A strategic selection of lightweight materials such as fabric, glass, and steel contributes to the themes of lightness and transparency. The use of fabric is particularly noteworthy; this element not only evokes a sense of intimacy but also serves as a dynamic mechanism to manipulate the light entering the space. Tinted glass panels further diffuse sunlight, allowing for the creation of varied shadow effects. The incorporation of a steel frame offers structural support while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic that keeps the focus on the interplay of light and shadow.

The unique design approaches employed in this project are bold yet subtle. One of the most innovative aspects is the concept of shadow hierarchy, which categorizes shadows based on their intensity and temperature. This not only provides a visual differentiation across spaces but also influences the mood of the inhabitants, allowing them to experience a range of atmospheres at different times of day. This attention to shadow quality transforms ordinary moments within the home, making daily activities feel distinctive as light shifts.

Moreover, the spatial organization promotes flexibility, allowing the occupants to adapt the spaces according to their needs. The design is modular, encouraging interaction and movement within the home. This adaptability is fundamental to how the space operates, ensuring that it can evolve alongside its inhabitants' lifestyles. In this way, the project blurs the lines between specific areas, allowing for a unified experience that streams through light and shadow interactions.

Ultimately, “Tuning Shadows: The Home of Shadows” is a contemplation of how architectural elements can foster a deeper relationship with the environment. The project shines a light on contemporary architectural ideas that prioritize sustainability and an enhanced connection with nature. By utilizing locally-sourced materials and optimizing natural light, the design promotes energy efficiency and resonates with the local landscape.

As a reader interested in more details about this intriguing project, I encourage you to explore the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas further. Engaging with these elements will provide a comprehensive understanding of how the project melds innovative architectural concepts with practical living solutions.
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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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