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Central Hearth Surrounded by Black Sea Stone and Standing-Seam Roof for Creative Retreat

Author:
Garrett Burleson
Central Hearth Surrounded by Black Sea Stone and Standing-Seam Roof for Creative Retreat

Project in-detail

A central hearth invites shared warmth among poet huts constructed with a standing-seam roof and local black sea stone, creating a reflective retreat that fosters creativity in nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
A central hearth serves as a communal gathering point for users.
02
Local black sea stone is used to enhance the connection to the landscape.
03
Poet huts are designed for intimate, individual reflection.
04
Strategically placed trees provide natural wind protection.
05
A hilltop meditation area offers panoramic views for inspiration.

"Solitude" is an architectural design focused on creating spaces for reflection and creativity. Located in a peaceful setting, the design caters specifically to poets and artists, offering a retreat that balances solitude with opportunities for communal interaction. The concept centers on connecting users with nature and providing environments conducive to artistic expression.

Site Plan and Arrangement

The layout includes poet huts designed as private spaces for contemplation. These huts are thoughtfully arranged in a way that encourages quiet reflection. To enhance comfort, trees are strategically placed to block wind, creating sheltered outdoor areas. A hilltop meditation space further promotes tranquility, while a multifunctional area allows for gatherings, fostering a sense of community among the inhabitants.

Material and Structural Considerations

Material choices play a crucial role in the project. The roofs are made from standing-seam metal, specifically steel with micronized copper, which provides durability and an appealing look. Local black sea stone is used, anchoring the design in its environment and enhancing its connection to the landscape. Additionally, load-bearing SIP panels and masonry are incorporated, highlighting a focus on sustainability and structural efficiency.

Water Features and Nature Integration

A prominent feature of the design is the inclusion of a Walden pond. This element serves as a calming focal point, reinforcing the importance of nature in the creative process. It invites users to pause and reflect in a serene setting. The design ensures that natural elements are woven throughout the space, allowing individuals to engage meaningfully with their surroundings.

The interior spaces are characterized by a central hearth. This feature marks a transition point, symbolizing the shift from everyday life into a more creative realm. It adds a layer of warmth and comfort, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the environment.

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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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