Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Charred Timber Retreats on Aluminum Pontoons for Nature Immersion

Authors:
James Tanner, Samantha Chia
Charred Timber Retreats on Aluminum Pontoons for Nature Immersion
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Constructed from charred timber and supported by aluminum pontoons, the retreat offers a unique blend of isolation and natural immersion, providing spaces for meditation and reflection in a serene woodland setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed on aluminum pontoons for flotation and stability.
02
Utilizes charred timber for weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a raised walkway for minimal landscape disruption.
04
Incorporates vertical transitions for enhanced user experience.
05
Designed to facilitate solitude and connection with nature.

Floating Worlds is located in an ancient woodland. It is designed to create a retreat experience focused on isolation and contemplation. The concept seeks to connect built forms with the natural landscape, encouraging people to engage with their surroundings. The design includes spaces that support meditation and reflection, with careful attention to minimizing environmental impact.

Supply Loop
A key element of the design is the raised walkway that functions both as a path for movement and a route for supplying the retreats. This walkway directs visitors through the area while allowing staff to deliver provisions without disturbing guests. The layout helps maintain the peaceful atmosphere of the wilderness as people navigate the space.

Retreat Structures
The project features two main retreat structures: the Hut and the Tea House. The Hut provides a heated space suitable for sleeping and storing items, creating a comfortable area for visitors. The Tea House, in contrast, is elevated without heating and is intended for meditation and rituals. This difference in function broadens the range of experiences available to individuals while they are in nature.

Material Choices
The design employs screw pile foundations for the land-based structures and aluminum pontoons for those on water. The architectural style takes cues from traditional forms, particularly seen in the pitched roofs, which help manage water drainage and integrate well with the surroundings. Shou Sugi Ban charred timber is used for cladding, highlighting a preference for local materials and a commitment to sustainability.

The design encourages exploration through a series of vertical transitions, moving from the ground to the decks and up to the attic spaces. Each retreat acts as an independent element within the landscape, giving guests a chance to deeply connect with their environment and reflect on their experiences amidst the natural setting.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

`
Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

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