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Biophilic Design Featuring Floating Structures and Natural Stone Integration in a Hospitality Retreat

Author:
Talal El masri
Biophilic Design Featuring Floating Structures and Natural Stone Integration in a Hospitality Retreat

Project in-detail

Floating structures crafted from natural stone and wood enhance the connection between interior and exterior, creating a unique hospitality retreat that emphasizes biophilic design and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Floating architecture enhances environmental integration by using structural supports that create the illusion of levitation.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide both strength and sustainability, minimizing environmental impact.
03
Charred wooden shingles offer improved durability while blending with the natural landscape.
04
An arcade design facilitates outdoor connectivity while maintaining privacy for individual spaces.
05
Natural light is maximized through large facades, creating a harmonious indoor-outdoor experience.
The Ozolini Guest House, situated near Lake Bezdibene, exemplifies an architectural design that combines functionality with an intimate connection to nature. This project serves as a hospitality space, providing comfort and accessibility while encouraging interaction among guests. The architecture promotes a sensory experience through its integration with the surrounding landscape and thoughtful spatial layout.

Spatial Configuration
The design employs an open layout that emphasizes fluid connections between public and private areas. The entrance leads guests through a reception area that flows seamlessly into multipurpose spaces designed for communal activities such as yoga sessions or social gatherings. Bedrooms are arranged to prioritize privacy while maintaining visual and physical connectivity. Large windows throughout facilitate natural light penetration, offering views of the natural surroundings and enhancing the occupant experience.

Unique Design Features
The Ozolini Guest House incorporates several distinctive design elements that differentiate it from typical hospitality structures. A notable aspect is its “floating” aesthetic, achieved through strategic structural supports that provide an illusion of levitation. The integration of an arcade on the second floor allows for easy access to bedrooms while encouraging outdoor interaction.

Another unique characteristic of this project is its emphasis on multi-functionality. Spaces are designed to be adaptable, accommodating various activities without rigid constraints. The building’s form and layout draw inspiration from biological neural networks, embodying the theme of connectivity at multiple levels, from spatial arrangement to visitor experience.

Sustainability and Environmental Integration
Sustainability considerations are central to the design. The use of materials such as concrete, stone, glass, aluminum, and wood emphasizes durability and ecological synergy. Roof extensions afford shaded areas during peak sunlight, while allowing for natural light to warm the space in cooler months. Water management systems are also thoughtfully integrated, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.

The Ozolini Guest House stands as a compelling example of modern architectural design that prioritizes ecological harmony, visitor interaction, and aesthetic coherence. The conceptual framework, rooted in natural systems, is realized through careful planning and innovative design strategies. Explore the project presentation for more insights, including architectural plans and details on architectural designs that illustrate its unique features and spatial organization.
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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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