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Vertical Garden Encased in Glass with Polygonal Geometry for a Community Space

Authors:
Rafael Solano, Emilio Garateguy, Carolina Güida
Vertical Garden Encased in Glass with Polygonal Geometry for a Community Space

Project in-detail

A polygonal structure of glass and sustainable materials houses a vibrant vertical garden, creating a multifunctional community space that seamlessly integrates nature with urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Polygonal geometry maximizes space utilization and creates dynamic interior layouts.
02
Transparent glass envelope enhances natural light and visual connectivity with the environment.
03
Integrated vertical garden promotes biodiversity and improves indoor air quality.
04
Recyclable materials support sustainable practices throughout the construction process.
05
Modular design allows for flexible usage and adaptability to various community needs.

### Overview

Located in an urban context, the project focuses on creating a multifunctional space that integrates natural elements with urban life. The design features a transparent structure aimed at fostering communal interactions and promoting biodiversity, thus enhancing the relationship between inhabitants and their environment.

### Design and Spatial Configuration

The structure is defined by an irregular hexagonal form, which allows for flexible interior layouts that can accommodate both social gatherings and individual reflection. The transparent envelope of glass enhances visibility and natural light throughout the space, establishing a strong visual connection to the outdoor landscape while also providing protection against environmental elements.

### Materiality and Environmental Integration

Sustainability plays a critical role in the materials chosen for the project. The use of treated glass ensures energy efficiency, while organic materials incorporated within the interior enhance air quality and promote biodiversity. Recyclable materials are also utilized, aligning with environmentally responsible practices that support a sustainable dialogue between the built environment and nature. The integration of greenery not only supports thermal regulation but also improves the micro-climate, creating a comfortable space in the urban setting.

### User Interaction and Experience

The design prioritizes user engagement through carefully organized spaces that encourage both social interaction and personal contemplation. Public and private areas are strategically arranged to facilitate various activities, with outdoor sculptural elements promoting recreational use. The thoughtful manipulation of natural light contributes to a dynamic atmosphere, fostering a deeper connection between users and their surroundings.

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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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