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A Central Tree and Gabled Roof Embrace Nature in a Sustainable Retreat

Authors:
Javier Anzueto busto, María Arriola flesch
A Central Tree and Gabled Roof Embrace Nature in a Sustainable Retreat

Project in-detail

A central tree anchors a gabled cabin designed for relaxation and self-discovery, while cross ventilation and sustainable wood construction enhance the connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central tree serves as the focal point of the cabin.
02
Gabled roof design maximizes airflow and sunlight.
03
Openings at both ends promote natural cross ventilation.
04
Constructed using sustainable wood to minimize ecological impact.
05
Layout enhances flow between sleeping, living, and meditative areas.

The DOOD - Traditional Māori House is situated in New Zealand, designed to create a strong bond between its occupants and the surrounding nature. This space encourages relaxation and self-discovery. Drawing from Māori cultural heritage, the design emphasizes connection to the environment while maintaining a modern sensibility.

Spatial Organization

The layout of the house features several important areas, including spaces for sleeping, eating, meditating, and bathing. Central to the design is a tree that serves as the focal point around which all other areas are arranged. This choice highlights the significance of nature and reinforces the idea that the outdoors is essential to human well-being. Each area flows into the next, creating a natural sense of movement throughout the cabin.



Architectural Features

The gabled roof is a prominent aspect of the house, providing both functional and visual benefits. It supports natural airflow and creates a link between the indoor space and the sky. The design includes openings at both ends, allowing for effective cross ventilation and enhancing comfort. Sunlight is also thoughtfully considered, with part of the cabin extending beyond the forest. This design choice ensures that the interiors receive ample natural light throughout the day.



Material Considerations

Wood is the primary material used in construction, chosen for its sustainability and suitability for the environment. This choice reflects a commitment to reducing ecological impact while ensuring durability. The simplicity of using wood allows the design to blend naturally with its surroundings, respecting the local landscape and traditions.



Functional Elements

Practical components such as coat storage, benches, and a mudroom enhance the usability of the space. These features are integrated to support everyday activities, making the cabin both functional and inviting. The design pays careful attention to the needs of its users, ensuring comfort while maintaining a strong connection to the natural environment. The central tree not only anchors the structure but also symbolizes the relationship between the inhabitants and the land, making it an essential part of the overall experience.

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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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