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Bamboo Huts Embracing Verticality in a Natural Retreat

Authors:
Marco Caprani, Mario Daudo
Bamboo Huts Embracing Verticality in a Natural Retreat

Project in-detail

Integrating vertical thrust and bamboo structures, the design creates meditative spaces within a natural retreat aimed at fostering community and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Vertical thrust enhances spatial connections with nature.
02
Bamboo huts incorporate traditional design elements.
03
Natural light filters through innovative roof structures.
04
The layout promotes communal gathering and reflection.
05
Sustainable materials support the local building culture.

The design exemplifies a thoughtful blend of traditional and contemporary Cambodian architecture. Set against a backdrop of greenery, it seeks to connect with the natural environment while addressing practical needs. The overall concept focuses on verticality, a feature that reflects elements of ancient Khmer structures, encouraging a deeper relationship with the landscape.

Verticality and Spatial Organization

At the core of the design is the idea of "vertical thrust," elevating the structure and enhancing its connection to the sky. This focus on height influences how spaces are arranged inside. The interior includes wooden shelves that serve a dual purpose: providing storage and contributing to the visual appeal. The layout promotes movement and interaction, inviting users to engage in activities ranging from quiet reflection to social gatherings. Natural light fills the rooms, creating a warm atmosphere.

Reimagining Roof Structures

The approach to roofing is a significant aspect of the design. Traditional styles have been thoughtfully reinterpreted to incorporate modern elements. By using various geometric shapes, the design achieves a "breaking of the flaps," creating lively transitions between indoor and outdoor areas. This strategy allows ample daylight to enter the spaces, enhancing the feeling of openness. The new roof forms respect cultural traditions while also considering practical functionality.

Materiality and Regional Context

Natural wood and local materials like bamboo are utilized in the project. These choices show a commitment to environmental awareness and respect for regional construction practices. By incorporating these materials, the design not only maintains a connection to Cambodian traditions but also emphasizes sustainability, anchoring the structure in its cultural context.

The arrangement features huts that are thoughtfully placed to interact with the natural terrain. Each structure is designed to fit into its surroundings, providing users with a sense of connection to the landscape. Attention to detail is evident, ensuring that the design is not only functional but also inviting, creating a peaceful atmosphere for contemplation and interaction.

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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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