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Charred Cladding and Cross-Laminated Timber Embrace Tranquility in a Forest Retreat

Authors:
Tom Lea, Eoin O'dwyer, George Barer
Charred Cladding and Cross-Laminated Timber Embrace Tranquility in a Forest Retreat
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The use of charred cladding and cross-laminated timber creates a sustainable retreat that harmonizes with the natural landscape, offering a serene environment for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sustainable charred cladding enhances durability and reduces maintenance.
02
Cross-laminated timber provides structural strength while promoting rapid assembly.
03
The cabin features panoramic windows for maximum natural light and forest views.
04
A water collection pool aids in conservation and supports local wildlife.
05
The two-level design creates distinct meditation zones for varied experiences.

The Atmos Cabin is located within the peaceful Ozolini meditation retreat. It aims to create a space for users seeking calmness and reflection. The design blends with the natural surroundings and focuses on sustainable practices, promoting a connection to the environment. The cabin serves as a sanctuary for those looking to escape the stress of daily life.

Material and Aesthetic Integration

The two-level structure of the cabin integrates harmoniously with the nearby trees. The exterior is clad in black charred wood, which adds a unique look while also being practical. This choice of material requires little maintenance and has a long lifespan, helping it withstand the elements. The contrast of the dark wood against the greenery enhances its presence in the forest.



Structural Performance

The cabin’s walls and floors are made from cross-laminated timber (CLT), which is sourced from responsibly managed forests. This material is prefabricated, allowing for quicker assembly on-site. CLT provides strength and stability to the structure, along with good thermal and sound insulation. Using timber supports sustainable building methods and minimizes the environmental impact.



Spatial Configuration

Inside, the layout focuses on meditation. It separates the main meditation space from supportive areas, creating a serene environment. Large panoramic windows allow for expansive views of the forest, inviting natural light into the space. This design reduces the need for artificial lighting and strengthens the connection between the interior and the outdoor scenery.



Ecological Features

The design includes a water collection pool. This feature conserves water and supports local wildlife, contributing to the cabin's ecological impact. An external deck extends the living area outside, encouraging interaction with nature.

The details in the design come together, offering a practical yet peaceful environment. Each aspect is considered to enhance the experience of being in nature.

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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

Open architecture competitions

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Prize Monetary award
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Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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