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Sustainable retreat featuring cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles in a natural landscape

Authors:
Ian Mann, Ratana Rith, Marck Sophannbunthang
Sustainable retreat featuring cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles in a natural landscape

Project in-detail

Nestled in the Cambodian wilderness, this sustainable retreat combines cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles to create a harmonious escape that thoughtfully integrates with its natural surroundings while prioritizing ecological sensitivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The retreat employs cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural integrity while maintaining a lightweight profile.
02
Charred wooden shingles are used for exterior cladding, providing enhanced durability and fire resistance.
03
The design features an innovative bent A-frame shape that optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout the space.
04
Elevated flooring systems help mitigate flood risks, ensuring resilience while preserving the natural terrain.
05
Rainwater harvesting systems are integrated to support sustainable water management and reduce dependency on external sources.
The Cambodia Remote Hideout Huts project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to modern architecture, offering a serene retreat set within the lush landscape of Cambodia, near Siem Reap. This project is more than just a collection of individual huts; it represents a harmonious coexistence with nature and a deliberate effort to create a sustainable guest experience. Functionally, the huts are designed to provide comfortable accommodations for short-term stays, enabling visitors to immerse themselves in the local environment while enjoying a sense of tranquility.

The core intent of the design is to foster a connection with the natural surroundings. Each hut is positioned thoughtfully within the topography, ensuring minimal disruption to the existing ecosystem. The layout promotes privacy while still allowing for communal spaces, enhancing social interaction among guests. The central community pavilion serves as a focal point for gathering, showcasing a collective spirit while also offering shared amenities.

A unique aspect of the project lies in its architectural ethos of “Touch the Earth Lightly.” This principle guides the selection of materials and design strategies, prioritizing sustainability and ecological sensitivity. The choice of timber for structural elements reflects a commitment to using natural, locally sourced materials. Coupled with concrete foundations and recycled steel, the huts are built to withstand the region's climatic conditions while minimizing their environmental footprint.

Another significant detail is the incorporation of solar panels on the roofs, which provide renewable energy for the huts. This approach aligns with contemporary architectural practices that seek to reduce reliance on non-renewable energy sources. Additionally, the use of rainwater harvesting systems underscores the project’s dedication to sustainable water management, further enhancing its eco-friendly profile.

The design also emphasizes natural ventilation. Strategically placed openings allow for cross-ventilation, creating comfortable interiors without the need for air conditioning. This consideration not only enhances guest comfort but also minimizes energy consumption, aligning with the overall vision of sustainability in architecture.

In terms of visual integration, the huts blend seamlessly with their surroundings, adopting a low-profile aesthetic that allows the landscape to take precedence. The simple lines and modest materials of the structures ensure that they do not overpower the natural beauty of the site. This design philosophy results in an architecture that is responsive to the environment while providing essential comfort and security for its users.

Through these architectural decisions, the Cambodia Remote Hideout Huts reflect a growing trend in the industry that values simplicity, sustainability, and a deeper connection to nature. The project serves as an exemplary model for future architectural endeavors that aim to harmonize human habitation with the natural world.

For those interested in understanding the intricacies of this project further, I encourage you to explore the detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs available. These documents provide deeper insights into the thoughtful architectural ideas that have shaped the Cambodia Remote Hideout Huts project.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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