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Twisting Core Framed in Wood with Panoramic Views

Author:
Spyridon Koutantzis
Twisting Core Framed in Wood with Panoramic Views

Project in-detail

With a twisting core that mimics a tree trunk and provides panoramic views, the design serves as a community space that blends with its natural surroundings through the use of wood and steel materials.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building's twisting form mirrors the growth patterns of trees.
02
A central core supports multiple levels, enhancing visual connection with nature.
03
Wooden slats on the exterior create a dynamic texture that changes with light.
04
The design integrates a hydraulic elevator along with a spiral staircase for accessibility.
05
Panoramic viewing platforms are strategically positioned for immersive landscape experiences.

Lady in a Top Hat blends modern architectural design with elements inspired by traditional Latvian structures. Located within a natural setting, it serves as a place for exploration and connection. The overall concept revolves around the experience of moving upward, much like climbing a tree. This journey draws users in, allowing them to engage with both the design and the surrounding landscape.

Structural Form

The design features a central core that acts as a trunk, supporting a twisting shape that reflects natural movement. This approach creates a lively spatial experience that guides visitors upward. Each floor is carefully arranged to provide wide views of the environment. The rotation of the building enhances the connection between visitors and the landscape outside.

Spatial Organization

The project includes five levels, each designed to offer different perspectives and experiences as one moves higher. The entrance reveals a skeletal structure, encouraging visitors to ascend. Each new level opens up more expansive views, helping individuals to immerse themselves in their surroundings.

Materiality

The choice of materials plays an important role in linking the building to the environment. The presentation describes the use of wooden floors, slat finishes, and a raw steel structure. Together, these materials create a natural atmosphere. They enhance the visual quality while reinforcing the idea of harmony with nature.

Interior Dynamics

Circulation within the building emphasizes efficiency and accessibility. A spiral staircase and a hydraulic elevator are included to facilitate easy movement between levels. This layout fosters a sense of openness and encourages interaction among visitors.

The exterior features thick wooden slats that blend with the surrounding environment, creating a textured finish that changes with the light throughout the day.

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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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