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Cave-Inspired Retreat with Reclaimed Wood and Glass Features

Author:
Dimitrije Todorovic
Cave-Inspired Retreat with Reclaimed Wood and Glass Features

Project in-detail

Constructed with reclaimed wood and designed to resemble a cave, this retreat harmonizes with the natural landscape while providing a tranquil space for families and pets.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cave-inspired structure enhances natural acoustics and ambiance.
02
Elevated design offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley.
03
Integrated glass floor provides visibility to flowing water below.
04
Flexible room layouts accommodate varying family needs.
05
Sustainable rainwater collection supports irrigation for the landscape.

Oasis of Peace is located in the peaceful forests of Oleiros, Portugal. The design serves as a retreat, encouraging a strong connection with nature. The structure takes inspiration from cave forms, fitting into the hillside and offering expansive views. Its design concept emphasizes sustainability and provides an environment for relaxation and reflection.

Design Concept
The overall concept of Oasis of Peace focuses on creating a living space that enhances its natural surroundings. By being elevated, the structure allows for stunning vistas of the valley and maximizes daylight within the interiors. This thoughtful positioning enhances the natural play of light throughout the day, leading to a calm and inviting atmosphere.

Spatial Organization
The layout is flexible, featuring movable partitions that enable adjustments to room sizes. This design choice promotes efficient use of space while catering to the needs of families, including those with pets. The interior is designed to foster a welcoming atmosphere, encouraging interaction among residents and their environment.

Sustainable Practices
Oasis of Peace employs several sustainable strategies to reduce its ecological footprint. A system for collecting rainwater is built into the design to reuse water for irrigation. This feature not only supports the growth of the surrounding landscape but also illustrates the commitment to environmental stewardship.

Material Selection
The choice of materials in Oasis of Peace reflects a focus on sustainability and durability. Reclaimed wood is the primary material used, which helps to minimize waste. Additionally, cellulose wadding from recycled paper is incorporated for insulation, making the building more energy-efficient. Polished hardwood floors enhance the interior while ensuring easy maintenance, particularly important in a home that accommodates pets.

Walking through Oasis of Peace allows residents to experience the gentle sounds of water flowing under the transparent glass floor. This feature connects them to the natural rhythms of the environment, enhancing their sense of tranquility.

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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
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