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Water Wall Feature with Reflective Glass and Insulated Wooden Structure

Author:
Matteo Legnani
Water Wall Feature with Reflective Glass and Insulated Wooden Structure

Project in-detail

The incorporation of a backlit water wall and reflective glass panels enhances the serene ambiance of a multifunctional community space that prioritizes user accessibility and environmental sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective glass panels create dynamic lighting effects throughout the day.
02
A backlit water wall serves as a central calming feature inside.
03
Insulating panels significantly enhance energy efficiency.
04
Wooden folding seats provide flexible seating options for users.
05
Acoustic management is integrated into the materials for sound comfort.

The project emerges as a thoughtful exploration of contemporary design and user-oriented functionality. It is situated in a lively environment and is intended to serve multiple purposes while enhancing the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The design concept focuses on balancing visual depth and practical applications, creating an inviting atmosphere for its users.

Materials and Aesthetics

Reflective glass panels stand out in the façade, allowing natural light to flood the interior and providing a modern appearance. External wood panels add warmth to the overall look, contrasting the sleek glass elements and creating a richer visual experience that engages with the surroundings.

Structural Integrity

Insulating panels covered with a vapor barrier play a vital role in the building's thermal performance. This feature helps conserve energy while keeping indoor spaces comfortable. The wooden structure, made up of uprights and transoms, offers essential support while maintaining an open layout that enhances the sense of space throughout.

Interior Functionality

Inside the structure, internal wood panels continue to create a warm and inviting environment while helping with sound management. Rubber and plastic gaskets for sliding doors improve accessibility, ensuring smooth movement between areas. There are practical seating options, including a wooden folding seat that makes efficient use of space without disrupting flow.

Sensory Engagement

A water wall designed as an indoor backlit fountain acts as a central feature, bringing tranquility and visual interest to the space. The flooring consists of stone-like ceramic slabs that add elegance and durability. Special details, such as a steel handle with an inscription, provide individualized touches, while a false ceiling equipped for audio speakers enhances sensory engagement by integrating nature sounds into the environment.

The thoughtful selection of design elements reflects a careful balance between beauty and functionality, resulting in an environment that encourages exploration and interaction. The project invites occupants to enjoy its spaces at their own pace.

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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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