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Water Interface Created with Precast Concrete and Triple Glazing

Authors:
Takahiro Osaka, Haruka Uchida, Ikumi Segawa, Haruka Taharasako
Water Interface Created with Precast Concrete and Triple Glazing

Project in-detail

Characterized by its unique water interface and extensive use of precast concrete and triple glazing, the design fosters a harmonious connection with nature while providing essential spaces for relaxation and communal interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Water interface designs create an immersive connection with the natural hot spring.
02
Precast concrete elements enhance structural stability and visual coherence.
03
Generous triple glazing maximizes natural light and views of the landscape.
04
The layout promotes fluid movement between communal and private spaces.
05
An emphasis on integrating indoor and outdoor environments fosters user engagement.

The Water Ledge project integrates architectural design with the surrounding landscape, focusing on the presence of a hot spring. The building serves multiple purposes, including areas for reception, lounge, kitchen and bar, storage, a bedroom, and a common outdoor bath. The overall design centers on creating a connection between the built environment and the natural elements, particularly water, which influences both experience and atmosphere.

Materiality

The design incorporates various materials that contribute to both strength and beauty. A 720/120mm precast reinforced concrete parapet capping is used, supported by steel bolts and brick fillets. This combination creates a protective edge while adding visual interest. Additionally, the structure features 220/220 mm precast reinforced concrete lintels framed with brick fillets. This choice reflects both structural integrity and a cohesive design aesthetic.

Spatial Organization

Inside the building, the spaces are arranged to promote interaction among users while also allowing for private retreat. This layout facilitates movement between different areas and enhances social engagement. The common outdoor bath, in particular, emphasizes the connection to nature, providing users a relaxing environment in which to enjoy the hot spring's benefits.

Light and Transparency

Large fixed triple glazing panels in aluminium frames play a crucial role in the design. These windows allow ample natural light to flood the interior, creating bright and inviting spaces. The placement of windows encourages views of the outdoor landscape and invites changing daylight conditions inside. This connection to the environment enhances the experience for visitors, making them more aware of their surroundings.

Structural Expression

The use of 80/140 mm steel RHS as a secondary load-bearing structure for the façade contributes to both stability and a refined look. This strategic placement of structural elements is evident in the building's elevations, particularly on the West and East facades. This focus on structural efficiency is an important aspect of the overall design, reinforcing the relationship between the architecture and its natural context.

The design details reflect an ongoing conversation between water and structure. The flow of the hot spring is referenced throughout the architecture, creating a sensory experience that invites users to engage more deeply with their environment.

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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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