Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Twisted Concrete Form Embracing Glass and Natural Wood in a Tranquil Residential Retreat

Authors:
Nadine Zahran, Heba Zakarnah
Twisted Concrete Form Embracing Glass and Natural Wood in a Tranquil Residential Retreat

Project in-detail

A twisted concrete structure seamlessly integrates expansive glass facades and natural wood elements, creating a serene residential retreat that fosters a deep connection with its wooded surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The residence features a twisted vertical circulation core that enhances spatial flow and exploration within the home.
02
Expansive glass facades create a seamless connection between interior spaces and the surrounding landscape.
03
Natural wood elements are integrated throughout, using locally sourced materials to promote sustainability.
04
The design incorporates skylights that allow natural light to filter through, enriching the interior atmosphere.
05
Charred wooden shingles provide a distinct aesthetic while enhancing the durability of the exterior.
The House of Tranquility stands as a thoughtful exploration of contemporary architecture, skillfully integrating living spaces with their natural surroundings. This project is a testament to the potential of residential design to harmonize with nature while providing comfort and utility for its inhabitants. The architectural approach prioritizes transparency and fluidity, creating an impression of continuity between the interior and exterior environments. By embracing a natural palette and leveraging the site’s inherent features, the design fosters a sense of serenity and connection to the landscape.

At the core of the House of Tranquility is a unique central circulation system. This twisted vertical core serves not only as a structural element but also as a spatial anchor, promoting movement and interaction throughout the home. The design creates a gradual journey through various living areas, encouraging exploration while preserving privacy. The careful arrangement of spaces accommodates both communal activities and individual retreats, ensuring the house can adapt to various lifestyle needs.

Key features of the project include expansive glass facades that dissolve barriers between the indoor living areas and the outdoor environment. These large panels of glass invite abundant daylight into the home, shrinking the delineation between inside and outside. Residents are offered uninterrupted views of the surrounding woodland, enhancing the experience of living in harmony with nature. The strategic placement of windows and skylights further reinforces the connection with the environment, allowing for a dynamic interaction with light and vegetation throughout the day.

Materiality plays a significant role in the project's overall aesthetic and functionality. Concrete is employed for its durability and structural strength, while its textured finish helps ground the building in its natural context. Complementing the robustness of the concrete, wood is used extensively within interior spaces, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere that stands in contrast to the more industrial material. This combination of materials is intended to create a balanced interplay that is both visually appealing and contextually appropriate.

The design encourages an appreciation for the changing seasons and weather patterns. By incorporating biophilic design principles, the House of Tranquility allows its inhabitants to experience the beauty of the outdoors from within. The undulating form of the architecture redirects views and frames the landscape, making the ever-shifting environment an integral part of daily life. This intentionality in design reflects a broader acknowledgment of the importance of nature in promoting well-being and tranquility.

In terms of architectural innovation, this project integrates sustainability considerations through its design and material choices. The use of glass not only allows for daylight but also minimizes energy consumption, while the efficient layout maximizes space without overwhelming the landscape. The architectural strategies employed recognize the importance of crafting spaces that respond to their environment, resulting in both functional and aesthetically pleasing outcomes.

The House of Tranquility represents a modern approach to residential architecture, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful design in cultivating spaces that are comfortable, functional, and inspiring. Its unique design elements and careful material selection demonstrate a harmonious balance between architecture and nature, offering residents a serene living environment deeply connected to the surrounding landscape. For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design ideas, consider exploring the detailed presentation of this project to appreciate its full scope and impact.
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 16544 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