Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Carved Showers in Rock and Timber Wellness Retreat

Author:
Arman Kayhan
Carved Showers in Rock and Timber Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Showers carved directly into a rocky cliff define a wellness retreat that harmonizes natural elements with timber construction, offering a tranquil space for yoga and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Showers are uniquely integrated into the rocky cliff, enhancing the connection to nature.
02
Large frosted glass panels allow natural light while maintaining privacy in intimate spaces.
03
Cross-laminated timber is used for structural elements, promoting sustainability and efficiency.
04
A water management system captures and filters rainwater for various building functions.
05
The layout transitions from enclosed dressing areas to expansive views, fostering a calming ambiance.

"Stone to Sky" is designed to connect the built environment with its natural surroundings. Set at the base of a rocky cliff, the project offers expansive views of hills and sky. The concept draws on the principles of yoga, emphasizing the unity of the human spirit with nature. Through thoughtful spatial arrangements, the design encourages interaction with the landscape, allowing users to engage with both the structure and its context.

Spatial Organization

The design features a series of interconnected spaces that lead visitors from enclosed areas to open vistas. Upon entering, individuals find themselves in a dressing room that directs attention to the cliff. Large windows made of frosted glass bring in soft natural light, creating a peaceful atmosphere while highlighting the textures of the stone.

Natural Light and Views

Moving through the space, visitors discover showers carved into the cliffside, which further deepen the connection to the natural landscape. This transition guides users to the shala, an open area with views of the hills. The design prioritizes natural light and promotes a sense of tranquility, making it easier for individuals to relax and focus during yoga practice.

Sustainability and Water Management

The project incorporates a water management system that reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility. Rainwater is collected from the roof and filtered for use within the building. Wastewater from the showers and sinks is redirected to a garden basin, which supports local plants and demonstrates a practical approach to sustainability. This feature highlights the integration of ecological considerations into the design.

Material Integration

Material choices in the project support its overall design philosophy. Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) is used for structural elements, offering both strength and sustainability. Wood is featured in interior spaces, complementing the existing stone of the cliff. Frosted glass enhances natural light while providing privacy, creating a warm and inviting environment.

Textures and light interact throughout, drawing visitors into a space that honors both natural elements and thoughtful design.

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