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Bamboo Structure Embraces Natural Light and Integrates Ayurvedic Principles in Residential Retreat

Author:
Francis Victor Stefan
Bamboo Structure Embraces Natural Light and Integrates Ayurvedic Principles in Residential Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating locally sourced bamboo and passive design strategies, the residence optimally utilizes natural light while adhering to Ayurvedic principles, creating a holistic living environment tailored for wellness and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes bamboo for structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Features large overhangs for enhanced shading and thermal comfort.
03
Incorporates multiple dedicated meditation and yoga spaces.
04
Aligns design with Ayurvedic principles for holistic living.
05
Optimizes natural light through strategic window placements.

## Project Overview

"The Home of Shadows" is situated in Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand, an area known for its scenic mountains and diverse forests. The design intent is to cultivate a living environment that promotes harmony with nature, aligned with the principles of Ayurveda and the natural rhythms of life. This residence accommodates a couple dedicated to yoga and holistic wellness, creating a sanctuary that supports their lifestyle and practices.

### Spatial Arrangement

The architectural layout is meticulously organized to foster interaction and tranquility. Centralized living areas promote social engagement while offering expansive views and natural ventilation. Dedicated spaces for meditation and yoga prioritize acoustic control and subtle lighting adjustments to enhance introspection and calmness. The dining area connects seamlessly to the kitchen, reinforcing the importance of shared culinary experiences that reflect Ayurvedic nourishment principles. Guest rooms are thoughtfully arranged to ensure privacy while contributing to the communal atmosphere. Utility areas are discreetly integrated to maintain an aesthetic of simplicity, and landscaped outdoor spaces encourage a connection with the natural environment.

### Material and Environmental Strategies

The material palette is consciously selected to align with the surrounding environment, employing locally sourced materials such as bamboo, which not only emphasizes sustainability but also provides flexibility in design. Large windows strategically positioned throughout the residence optimize natural light while minimizing direct sunlight exposure, creating dynamic shadow patterns that enhance both the atmosphere and comfort. The project also incorporates passive design strategies that adapt to climatic variations, ensuring energy efficiency and occupant comfort throughout the changing seasons. The design reflects a commitment to environmental sustainability, with landscaping that integrates native plant species and reinforces ecological well-being in the context of the home’s surroundings. Each space is informed by Ayurvedic principles, organized to align with daily routines and promote a balanced lifestyle.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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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
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Kinderspace
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