Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Twisted Shell Form Offering Solitude and Connection

Author:
Kinga Zajac
Twisted Shell Form Offering Solitude and Connection

Project in-detail

The twisted shell form creates a unique sanctuary that promotes solitude and intimate social interaction, integrating seamlessly into Tokyo's urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Twisted shell form inspired by deep-sea creatures.
02
Openwork design allows light and sightlines to the environment.
03
Seating arrangement encourages face-to-face interaction.
04
Located in Tokyo's urban context, linking nature with city life.
05
Promotes both personal reflection and social connection.

The design of Shell responds thoughtfully to Tokyo's identity as a fishing settlement, connecting with its coastal roots. This structure takes the form of a shell, acting as a retreat within the busy city. The overall concept emphasizes personal refuge while also connecting occupants to urban life. In a world where people often feel overwhelmed, Shell offers a space for quiet reflection and observation.

Concept and Inspiration
The design derives its essence from Tokyo's historical ties to the ocean. The shell shape represents protection and comfort, providing a safe space from the fast pace of city life. It invites individuals to stop, think, and reconnect with themselves. By drawing inspiration from deep-sea creatures, the cabin connects users to nature, instilling a sense of peace amidst the surrounding urban activity.

Spatial Arrangement
The twisted form of the cabin creates cozy areas for shelter and observation. This design allows occupants to distance themselves from the bustling crowd, while openwork elements maintain a sense of connection to the outside world. The interplay of light and shadow enhances the experience, making the space feel dynamic and alive, as users engage with their environment.

Interaction Design
Seating is arranged in a way that promotes conversation. Chairs are positioned diagonally to encourage direct communication between occupants. This thoughtful layout seeks to address the diminishing personal interactions characteristic of today’s digitized society. In doing so, the design acts as a catalyst for fostering meaningful connections, drawing attention to the social aspect of being in such a space.

The unique shape and structure provide a blend of protection and openness. The exterior suggests the flowing forms of the ocean while the interior focuses on creating a calming atmosphere. Natural light filters through the intricate design, highlighting the balance between solitude and social engagement, creating a rich environment for both reflection and interaction.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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