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Wooden Habitat Overlooking Migratory Birds with Green Roof Integration

Authors:
Jehean Sim, Nayeon Kim, Dongho Han
Wooden Habitat Overlooking Migratory Birds with Green Roof Integration

Project in-detail

Built with a focus on wood and designed to integrate with green roofs, the structure harmonizes modern living with its role as a habitat for migratory birds while providing essential community spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local wood to enhance sustainability and cultural connection.
02
Features an observatory tower providing unobstructed views of the natural landscape.
03
Incorporates green roofs designed to support local flora and fauna.
04
Divides public and private areas to foster community interaction and individual space.
05
Includes a unique bent A-frame design optimizing spatial efficiency and aesthetics.

The architectural design project on Eulsuk Island presents a sustainable skyscraper that connects urban living with the island's rich ecology. Located in the western part of Busan, South Korea, Eulsuk Island is known for being Asia's largest migratory bird habitat. The design concept focuses on creating harmony between built spaces and the natural environment while meeting the needs of residents and visitors.

Design Concept

The core idea centers around integrating natural elements within a structure that reaches upward. The design addresses the challenges posed by the limited space on Eulsuk Island while emphasizing environmental sensitivity. By extending vertically and also allowing for horizontal spaces, the building increases usable areas. This design choice ensures that natural light can reach the interiors, contributing to a healthy living environment.

Spatial Arrangement

The layout clearly divides public and private areas. This approach fosters community engagement while also providing quiet spaces for individuals. There are distinct functional areas, such as an observatory tower. This feature not only provides breathtaking views but also allows people to interact with the surrounding landscape. Private offices are arranged in the upper levels to offer a sense of privacy, while the lounge accommodates various activities, from socializing to relaxing.

Material Considerations

The design prominently features wood, reflecting a connection to traditional local building methods. This choice is significant as it promotes sustainability by using materials sourced from the region. Wood enhances the visual appeal of the building while aligning with the commitment to environmental responsibility. Its warm texture creates an inviting atmosphere, complementing the overall design philosophy.

Environmental Integration

A notable aspect of the design is its effort to create a strong link between indoor and outdoor spaces. The building includes terraces and green roofs, blending the structure with the local landscape. These outdoor areas not only add aesthetic value but also support local wildlife, particularly migratory birds. This feature ensures that the skyscraper serves both as a habitat for humans and as a refuge for nature, enriching the ecological diversity of the island.

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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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