Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Breathable Cabins with Polycarbonate Membranes and Natural Airflow

Author:
Margaret Fitzpatrick
Breathable Cabins with Polycarbonate Membranes and Natural Airflow

Project in-detail

Utilizing a flexible membrane system and polycarbonate materials to optimize natural airflow, the cabins create a unique breathing environment that enhances the yoga retreat experience in the Cambodian countryside.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabins feature adjustable membranes that optimize air circulation based on weather conditions.
02
Each cabin is designed to capture and channel both ocean and mountain winds for natural cooling.
03
Polycarbonate materials provide durability while allowing natural light to filter into the space.
04
The manual pulley system enables occupants to personalize their indoor environment easily.
05
Mosquito netting offers protection while maintaining airflow and connection with nature.

The design features a group of private guest cabins situated in the quiet Cambodian countryside, designed for a yoga retreat. Located about half an hour from the ocean, the cabins reflect the concept of breath, considering both its physical and spiritual significance. The structure is not just a place to live; it serves as a space that enhances the experience of breathing, much like the practice of yoga itself.

Natural Airflow

The cabins are carefully positioned to maximize natural airflow. They capture the southwest winds coming in from the ocean and the northeast winds descending from the mountains. This thoughtful orientation allows for a continuous, refreshing flow of air throughout the interior spaces, promoting a comfortable living environment that connects inhabitants with the natural surroundings.

Adaptive Membrane System

A notable aspect of the design is the adaptable membrane system. Each cabin features a series of membranes that can be adjusted depending on weather conditions. This is accomplished through a manual pulley system that allows occupants to open or close sections as desired. The interior can be completely open, aside from a mosquito netting for protection, or fully enclosed. This versatility ensures that comfort levels can be maintained regardless of external climate changes.

Material Considerations

Materials play a significant role in the overall design, contributing to both functionality and aesthetics. The construction includes a polycarbonate heavy rain screen, tinted polycarbonate, corrugated sheets, translucent flat panels, and mosquito netting. These selections help to guard against the elements while allowing light to filter through, enhancing the sensory experience within the cabins and creating a harmonious connection with nature.

The design encourages both personal reflection and a sense of community among the retreat's visitors. Each cabin acts as an interactive space where occupants can engage with their environment. The focus on breath as a shared experience weaves together the architecture and nature, promoting a unique atmosphere that invites tranquility and connection for all who stay within.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
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
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy