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Undulating Façade Crafted From Composite Panels in a Sustainable Residential Structure

Author:
Danxi Zou
Undulating Façade Crafted From Composite Panels in a Sustainable Residential Structure

Project in-detail

Featuring an undulating façade crafted from composite panels, the structure integrates sustainability with flexible living spaces to create a responsive residential environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes an undulating façade for enhanced natural light and visual interest.
02
Incorporates composite panels for structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to maximize interior space flexibility.
04
Features a green roof to promote biodiversity and reduce environmental impact.
05
Integrates local topography into the architectural form for contextual relevance.

### Project Overview

"The Cubic Bifurcation," designed by Roberto Barrio, Santiago Ibáñez, and Lucía Pérez, is a geometric architectural exploration situated within a stark red desert landscape. The project, articulated around a 50m x 50m x 50m cube, seeks to examine architectural possibilities through the lens of Jorge Luis Borges' literary influences. This design utilizes geometric bifurcation to create a structure that not only challenges conventional architectural forms but also engages with philosophical inquiries into time and choice as they relate to space.

### Bifurcation and Spatial Configuration

The conceptual framework of bifurcation serves as a cornerstone for both the structural and spatial dynamics of the design. The architects employ mathematical principles, particularly two-dimensional bifurcation curves, to guide the three-dimensional form of the building, resulting in a structure that moves beyond traditional column and plate systems. Internally, the layout features a flexible configuration that responds to the curvilinear nature of the exterior, offering varied spatial experiences that accommodate diverse functions from communal areas to private retreats. This design fosters fluid movement throughout the building, enhancing user interaction through open interstitial spaces that facilitate natural light and air circulation.

### Materiality and Sustainability

In addressing the visual and ecological aspects of the project, a carefully chosen palette of materials plays a significant role. The façade features glass to maximize transparency and daylight, complemented by structural steel that supports the building's unique geometries. Additionally, composite panels form the building’s undulating surfaces, integrating thermal performance and aesthetic continuity. The incorporation of green roofing elements fosters biodiversity and signifies a commitment to sustainable practices. This material strategy not only enhances the building’s performance but also aligns with contemporary environmental concerns, contributing to a design ethos that is environmentally responsible and contextually relevant.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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