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Bamboo Pods Seamlessly Integrated Into The Landscape For Eco-Friendly Retreat

Authors:
Krunal Negandhi, Shilpa Negandhi, Nimisha Chavan, Sonali Bahuguni
Bamboo Pods Seamlessly Integrated Into The Landscape For Eco-Friendly Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating bamboo pods that harmoniously blend with the natural terrain, the design offers a sustainable retreat aimed at fostering wellness and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Bamboo construction enhances sustainability while providing structural integrity.
02
Foldable windows create an unobstructed flow between indoor and outdoor spaces.
03
Jali screens offer privacy while allowing natural light and airflow into the pods.
04
Integrated wildlife gardens promote local biodiversity and enhance the natural ecosystem.
05
Soil Bio Technology ensures efficient waste management while maintaining hygiene standards.
The Casulo is an architectural project located in the highlands of Serra da Estrela, Portugal. It is designed as a series of sleep pods that provide a retreat for individuals seeking tranquility and a connection to nature. The project embodies a philosophy of wellness, creating an environment conducive to relaxation and introspection.

The primary function of The Casulo is to serve as a restful haven away from urban distractions. The design incorporates natural elements and local materials, emphasizing sustainability and ecological sensitivity. The structure’s oval form reflects biomimicry, drawing inspiration from natural shapes to blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape.

Unique Design Approaches

An essential characteristic of The Casulo is its use of bamboo as the primary building material. Bamboo’s renewable nature aligns with the project's commitment to sustainability. Notable features include bamboo poles for structural integrity, sandwich walls for insulation, and bamboo shingles that cover the roof. This choice of material not only contributes to the aesthetics but also ensures the building's environmental impact is minimized.

The design includes large foldable windows that facilitate an outdoor experience, providing ample natural light while allowing occupants to engage with their surroundings. Additionally, the incorporation of Jali screens enhances both privacy and airflow, creating a comfortable atmosphere within the pods.

Another distinct aspect of The Casulo is its integration with the landscape. The project includes a variety of native plants, supporting local biodiversity and creating wildlife gardens that attract pollinators. The inclusion of Soil Bio Technology (SBT) for sewage treatment reflects an innovative approach to managing waste while maintaining hygiene standards.

Architectural Ideas

The architectural concepts explored in The Casulo showcase a focus on functionality paired with aesthetic appeal. The organic shapes of the pods encourage a sense of security and warmth, while their arrangement on-site fosters a communal experience for guests. The integration of landscaping with built forms emphasizes a seamless transition between architecture and nature.

The Casulo stands out in its approach to creating a serene environment that minimizes the ecological footprint. The project highlights how thoughtful design and material selection can coexist with ecological preservation. Readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs for a comprehensive understanding of the project’s nuances and innovative ideas.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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