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Vertical Steel Canopy Enveloping Glass and Concrete Spaces in Brazilian Terrain

Author:
Jason Jia Qi Yu
Vertical Steel Canopy Enveloping Glass and Concrete Spaces in Brazilian Terrain

Project in-detail

Elevated steel columns create a dynamic canopy that seamlessly integrates glass and concrete elements into the Brazilian landscape, facilitating communal interaction in a multifunctional gathering space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated steel columns create a visually open structure while providing essential support.
02
Integrates large glass panels to enhance natural light and visibility throughout the space.
03
The design emphasizes a modular approach, allowing for flexible interior layouts.
04
Utilizes a cantilevered roof to provide shade and shelter for outdoor activities.
05
Innovative use of local materials to ensure environmental harmony with the surrounding landscape.

## Project Overview
Located within a dynamic urban context, the design emphasizes a nuanced relationship between the architectural form and its surroundings. The intent is to create an integrated environment that supports diverse functions while enhancing user engagement with both the interior and exterior landscapes. The design features a complex spatial layout, characterized by a distinct interplay of structural elements that facilitate interaction and a sense of community.

### Spatial Configuration
The project employs a layered spatial strategy that fosters continuity and connectivity. Elevated structures are supported by slender vertical columns, granting visibility to the ground and creating protective canopies beneath. The plan reveals a thoughtful zoning of varied functional spaces, organized in a labyrinthine manner that promotes exploration and interaction among users. Transparent elements are strategically positioned to enhance the flow of natural light and maintain visual connections between distinct areas.

### Materiality and Environmental Integration
Material selection plays a pivotal role in defining the project’s character. Predominantly, raw steel is utilized for the vertical supports, imparting structural resilience while enhancing the overall industrial aesthetic. Glass infill panels are incorporated to promote transparency and facilitate natural light penetration, reinforcing a dialogue between the interior spaces and the outdoor environment. Concrete serves as a grounding element within the foundation, contrasting with the verticality of the steel structures and providing tactile diversity. This combination of materials not only contributes to the visual appeal but also aligns with sustainability goals by supporting energy-efficient design practices.

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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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