Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Wyrd Symbol and Turf House Elements in Sustainable Timber Collective Space

Author:
Raluca Scheusan
Wyrd Symbol and Turf House Elements in Sustainable Timber Collective Space

Project in-detail

The integration of a Wyrd symbol and turf house-inspired seating enhances the sustainable timber framework, creating a community space that promotes interaction with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integration of a Wyrd symbol within the floor intarsio enhances cultural significance.
02
Irregular surfaces on the wall bench promote informal interaction among users.
03
A sliding window at the bar facilitates outdoor service and engagement.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems contribute to sustainability and aesthetic appeal.
05
Pathways utilize a modular design for easy maintenance and adaptability.

The project is situated in a landscape that encourages a close relationship between nature and the building. The design focuses on creating connections, with key features like a window bench that promote interaction between inside and outside. Natural light floods the spaces, and views of the surroundings are easily accessible, enhancing the overall experience for users.

Spatial Organization
The building's layout emphasizes practical use and visitor comfort. An entrance hallway doubles as a locker room, providing storage for coats and personal items. This arrangement not only helps with visitor flow but also keeps the space warmer by acting as a heat buffer. Nearby, a storage area behind the reception allows access to crucial systems like the water collection tank and geothermal heating.

Seating and Interaction
A memorable feature is the seating area inspired by turf house beds. The irregular shapes of the wall bench encourage people to relax and engage more casually with each other. The balcony is positioned to enhance views of the landscape, accessed through a glass door that playfully contrasts with the symmetry of the windows, inviting users to enjoy time outdoors.

Sustainability and Materiality
Sustainable practices are woven into the design. While connecting to a nearby geothermal energy source may present challenges, the project incorporates alternative solutions. Battery-powered lights and heating systems use the geothermal properties of the area. Rainwater collection systems are also in place, using pipes along the back of the building to gather water, adding both function and aesthetic appeal.

Structural Approach
The structure relies on Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), which combines ribs, beams, and posts in a practical way. This method allows for quick assembly on site while reducing exposure to the elements during construction. Using renewable materials also improves insulation, helping maintain a comfortable indoor environment.

The pathways around the building feature a modular design, making it easy to maintain and replace parts when necessary. This thoughtful approach reflects a balance between the architecture and the landscape, highlighted by details that frame inviting views of the changing scenery.

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