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Vaulted Roof Enclosing Courtyard Amidst Natural Light

Authors:
Qian Yang, Yan ying Zhang
Vaulted Roof Enclosing Courtyard Amidst Natural Light

Project in-detail

A vaulted roof gracefully encases a central courtyard, allowing abundant natural light to filter into spaces dedicated to creativity, making it a functional home for artistic pursuits on the Isle of Wight.
5 key facts about this project
01
Vaulted roof design creates dynamic interior heights.
02
Central courtyard fosters natural light throughout the home.
03
Dedicated artist studio tailored for creative flexibility.
04
Personal library provides a focused writing environment.
05
Strategic positioning offers views of the English Channel.

The design located on the Isle of Wight presents a residence that is harmoniously connected to its natural surroundings. Set against a backdrop of the coast, the home creates an engaging relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces. The notable vaulted roof arches over the structure, framing a central courtyard that functions as a living area. This integration of elements promotes a comfortable environment, enhancing daily life for the residents.

Architecture and Layout

A pathway leads visitors towards the house, where the vaulted roof becomes a key architectural feature. This roof not only offers protection from the elements but also adds height and openness to the interior. Large windows throughout the house allow daylight to enter, creating a warm ambiance while establishing a link between the living spaces and the landscape. The thoughtful arrangement encourages the occupants to appreciate their surroundings from within the comfort of their home.



Creative Spaces

On one side of the residence lies a library dedicated to writing. This space is designed to provide quiet moments, allowing the wife to focus on her work. The abundant natural light streaming in makes it an inspiring area. Across the courtyard is the husband’s artist studio, designed for flexibility and creativity. This arrangement of spaces highlights the different needs of both individuals and fosters an environment that supports their creative pursuits.



Communal Environment

The design features communal areas that invite interaction between the couple and their guests. Dining spaces play a central role in daily life, encouraging shared meals and conversations. These areas are planned to promote a sense of togetherness while also allowing for comfortable social gatherings. Guests are welcomed into a mezzanine space, which adds to the overall inviting atmosphere of the home.



Connection to Landscape

The architecture also establishes a clear connection to the natural landscape. Views of the English Channel are framed by the home, enhancing the experience of living in such a beautiful setting. This focus on the landscape not only enriches the interior spaces but also encourages residents to engage with nature regularly.



The overall design culminates in a courtyard that offers a peaceful retreat, encouraging moments of reflection and relaxation. It serves as a central point where the daily rhythm of life can unfold, blending both personal time and shared experiences.

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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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