Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Twisting Form of Milled Timber Panels Integrated Within an Environmental Narrative

Author:
Desislava Paneva Paneva
Twisting Form of Milled Timber Panels Integrated Within an Environmental Narrative

Project in-detail

A twisting structure of milled timber panels intertwines with the landscape, creating an immersive observatory that integrates local cultural narratives while providing visitors with panoramic views of Silver Lake’s natural beauty.
5 key facts about this project
01
A twisting architectural form enhances the interaction between structure and landscape.
02
Constructed primarily with milled timber panels to promote sustainability.
03
Integrates a narrative of local cultural heritage into the visitor experience.
04
Glass panels strategically positioned to maximize natural light and views.
05
Incorporates a unique MERO system for modular and efficient construction.

### Project Overview
TwistSkyview Tower is situated in Silver Lake, South Dakota, and integrates contemporary architectural design with the region's cultural narratives. The intent of the structure is to create an engaging environment that fosters a connection between visitors and the surrounding landscape while reflecting the literary heritage associated with Laura Ingalls Wilder.

### Spatial Strategy
The design comprises a series of interconnected zones, each offering distinct sensory experiences. The "Entrance Zone" serves as the threshold, facilitating a gradual transition from the exterior to the interior. Following this, the "Intervining Zone" features sculptural elements that reflect local narratives, encouraging visitor exploration and interaction. The "View Zone" culminates the visitor experience at the observatory, showcasing expansive views of Silver Lake and its picturesque surroundings. This carefully orchestrated journey promotes contemplation and enhances emotional engagement with the site.

### Materiality and Construction
TwistSkyview employs a diverse selection of materials that support both aesthetic and structural goals. Milled timber panels form the building's primary framework, designed in a twisting configuration that emphasizes sustainability. The MERO support system integrates pipes and junctions for load distribution, alongside screw attachments for modular assembly. Strategic placement of glass panels maximizes natural light while providing clear views of the landscape, further enriching the visitor experience and ensuring structural integrity.

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

`

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