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Vertical Steel Plates Shaping Sensory Experiences in Urban Nature

Authors:
Evelyne Albuquerque, Ricardo Dantas, Janniely Souza, Micael Martins
Vertical Steel Plates Shaping Sensory Experiences in Urban Nature

Project in-detail

Vertical steel plates create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow while integrating internal voids that provide views of the surrounding landscape, facilitating a deep connection between urban inhabitants and nature within this multifunctional space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Vertical steel plates create dynamic light patterns throughout the interior.
02
Internal voids provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
03
Materials emphasize strong connections between structure and nature.
04
Design encourages sensory engagement in everyday experiences.
05
The building's layout fosters interaction between indoor and outdoor spaces.

The design brings a fresh perspective on the relationship between people and nature within an urban environment. Set in a bustling city, the structure aims to reconnect inhabitants with the natural world. The concept focuses on sensory engagement and reflection, making the building not just a place to occupy but an experience in itself. It utilizes a design approach that seeks to reshape the interaction between the built form and its surroundings.

Defragmentation as a Concept

The idea of defragmentation lies at the heart of the design. It addresses how modern city life can lead to a disconnect with our natural environment. Through vertical steel plates, the structure creates an interplay of light and shadow, providing a dynamic atmosphere that changes throughout the day. These elements connect to continuity and break down the barriers commonly found in urban living, encouraging deeper sensory experiences for those within.

Structural Composition

The project is defined by three main elements. First, steel sheets are connected to the soil, highlighting the material's strong link to the earth. This connection serves as a reminder of origins, keeping the idea of grounding human experience central to the design.

The second component includes the vertical steel plates that form the tower’s enclosure. These plates not only offer structural support but also enhance the sensory experience throughout various levels of the building. The design encourages interaction between the indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering a dialogue that brings the natural world closer to those inside.

Spatial Experience

Internal voids are a significant aspect of the layout. They allow natural light to flood the interior and frame views of the outside landscape. These openings invite occupants to engage with their environment, fostering a deeper interaction with nature. Such an approach emphasizes nature's role in urban life, highlighting the necessity of incorporating natural elements in building design.

The consistent use of steel throughout adds to the architectural narrative. It provides practical benefits alongside modern aesthetics. The material is chosen for its strength and ability to form an attractive visual identity. The design showcases how thoughtful architecture can promote a sense of connection, giving people a place to engage with both their inner selves and the outside world.

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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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