Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Wooden Sunshades Framing Natural Observatories Within Ecological Landscapes

Authors:
Giampiero Minniti, Lia Maenza
Wooden Sunshades Framing Natural Observatories Within Ecological Landscapes

Project in-detail

Set amidst rich ecological landscapes, wooden sunshades define a series of observatories designed for contemplation and interaction with the natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Wooden sunshades enhance natural light control while offering shelter and visual interest.
02
Observatories are strategically positioned to maximize views of surrounding ecological features.
03
Vertical and horizontal layers are precisely dimensioned to balance structural integrity and aesthetics.
04
The integration of psammofila vegetation promotes biodiversity within the site.
05
The layout encourages interaction with varying landscape elements for an immersive experience.

The design emphasizes the concept of spontaneous aggregation, taking inspiration from psammofila vegetation to create a connection between built spaces and the natural world. Located in an area that features lagoons, arid dune vegetation, and tall trees, the project includes various observatories designed to foster a relationship with the environment. The overall aim is to blend architecture with its surroundings while providing spaces for observation and contemplation.

Design Organization

The site is organized around pathways that improve accessibility among different observatories. Each observatory varies in size, with Observatory 1 occupying 23.50 square meters, Observatory 2 at 17.70 square meters, Observatory 3 at 12.70 square meters, a Closet/WC at 8.00 square meters, and a Panoramic Terrace measuring 28.00 square meters. The total area comes to 61.90 square meters. This configuration enables users to navigate the space easily while engaging with the rich vegetation present.

Material Selection

The project utilizes wooden elements such as wooden sunshades and wooden floors to create a feeling of warmth and to connect with nature. These materials are chosen to enhance both the visual appeal and the practical aspects of the design. They help filter natural light and provide shelter against the elements while contributing to a softer aesthetic that aligns with the ecological setting.

Structural Composition

The design features a careful arrangement of vertical and horizontal layers. Vertical components measure 2.60 by 13.60, while horizontal layers measure 2.60 by 10.00. The lower closing elements are 13 by 10 cm, and the upper closing components are 13 by 20 cm. This precise dimensioning contributes to the stability of the structure while also allowing for an interesting visual experience that complements the overall design theme.

The observatories provide vantage points to engage with the natural surroundings. Light filters through the wooden sunshades, casting soft patterns inside. This creates spaces that are both welcoming and conducive to reflection, deepening the connection between users and their environment.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy