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Central Tree Integrated into Timber Pods Embracing Natural Landscape

Authors:
Sania Mimba, Wisnu Achintya, Khrisna Satriya wibawa
Central Tree Integrated into Timber Pods Embracing Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

A central pine tree entwined within timber pods forms the heart of a residential retreat in Vale de Moses, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor spaces while promoting sustainability and tranquil living.
5 key facts about this project
01
A central pine tree is integrated into the living space of the structure.
02
Diagonal timber pods allow for a light and dynamic form.
03
The design incorporates a water filtration system to support local vegetation.
04
Large windows frame views of the surrounding landscape, enhancing natural light.
05
Cork sheets are used for the ceiling, providing acoustic and thermal insulation.

The design located in Vale de Moses integrates a residential space within a beautiful natural setting that features tall pine trees and steep cliffs. The building serves as a private retreat, bridging the gap between the comforts of home and the calmness of nature. This design promotes a relaxing atmosphere while ensuring privacy for its occupants. The concept is rooted in creating a sanctuary where people can enjoy their surroundings without distraction.

Conceptual Framework

The structure utilizes a diagonal form that connects the building with the landscape. A triangular roof complements a square room, creating a balance that reflects both modern design and traditional styles. This form allows the structure to rise gently from the land, making it feel light and unobtrusive against the backdrop of the cliff.

Spatial Arrangement

The interior layout emphasizes openness and the flow of natural light. Large windows are placed strategically to draw in sunlight and highlight views of the landscape. At the center of the living space lies a pine tree intertwined with the building, serving as an important part of the design. This feature encourages a sense of peace and connection to the environment, enriched by the scents of the surrounding flora.

Sustainable Features

This design also incorporates a water filtration system aimed at nourishing nearby plants. This feature demonstrates a respect for the natural environment by ensuring minimal disruption to the site. It supports the local ecosystem while enhancing the overall living experience. The commitment to sustainability is clear, as the building harmonizes with its surroundings rather than imposing on them.

Material Application

Materials play a vital role in the project, contributing to both its functionality and appearance. The design includes a timber roof along with a waterproof membrane, ensuring safety and durability. Cork sheets are used in the ceilings to help with sound and temperature control. Timber rafters and frames add structural support while cork wall partitions and hardwood flooring enhance the comfort of the interior spaces.

Light dances through the large windows, bringing in the changing colors of the day. The central tree connects nature to daily life, ensuring that the home feels as if it belongs to the landscape.

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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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