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 Wooden Shingles and Angular Geometry Create a Tranquil Retreat in Nature

Author:
Federigo Gioia
Charred Wooden Shingles and Angular Geometry Create a Tranquil Retreat in Nature

Project in-detail

Characterized by charred wooden shingles and an angular geometry that harmonizes with its wooded surroundings, the design serves as a meditative retreat focused on promoting a connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and aesthetic appeal through traditional Japanese techniques.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability, reducing material waste.
03
Features an angular geometry that creates dynamic interior spaces, optimizing natural light and views.
04
Includes adaptable platforms that allow for multifunctional use of space throughout various activities.
05
Designed to promote mindfulness, the layout intentionally separates communal and private areas within a compact footprint.

The architectural project "Oru-Kami" is a contemporary cabin located within a wooded landscape, designed to foster a connection between occupants and nature. Inspired by the Japanese art of Origami, the project embodies simplicity, adaptability, and responsiveness to the environment. It serves as a retreat that promotes relaxation, meditation, and interaction with its natural surroundings. The structure's form and layout reflect both practical functionality and a philosophical approach to living harmoniously within nature.

Integration of Natural Elements

The design employs angular planes and triangular forms that are reminiscent of origami folds. This geometric exploration creates a unique visual language that sets "Oru-Kami" apart from traditional cabin designs. The interplay of light and shadow across the surfaces encourages a dynamic relationship between the interior space and external nature. Transparent glass allows natural light to flood the interior while maintaining views of the landscape, reinforcing a sense of openness.

Material selection is crucial to the project’s ethos. Timber forms the primary structure, offering warmth and sustainability. Complementary materials such as steel reinforcements ensure stability while keeping the aesthetic minimal. The thoughtful use of materials not only enhances thermal performance but also complements the overall aesthetic of the cabin, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the environment.

Thoughtful Spatial Organization

"Oru-Kami" is organized across two levels, each with distinct functions. The ground level encompasses communal areas including a kitchenette and dining space, designed for accessibility and social interaction. The open layout facilitates movement and promotes engagement among occupants while maintaining a visual connection to the outside.

The upper level is designed as a private retreat, serving as a space for meditation and contemplation. This juxtaposition of public and private areas reflects a comprehensive understanding of user experience, allowing for both shared activities and moments of solitude.

The adaptability of the interior space, characterized by flexible design elements, supports various uses throughout the day. This versatility embodies the project’s focus on transformation, highlighting a practical approach to contemporary living.

Exploration of Architectural Ideas

"Oru-Kami" represents a thoughtful interpretation of architectural ideas that emphasize resilience and transformation. The use of origami as a conceptual framework suggests that architecture can be both robust and delicate. The unique approach to folding forms and creating dynamic spaces provides a foundation for further exploration in modern architecture.

Unique features such as adjustable platforms and collapsible elements offer opportunities for users to interact with the space in innovative ways. These design considerations enhance the cabin's multifaceted nature, allowing it to adapt to various needs over time.

In summary, "Oru-Kami" presents an architectural narrative that merges form, function, and philosophy. This project stands as an example of how thoughtful design can create spaces that resonate with their surroundings while also emphasizing user experience.

To gain more insights into the architectural elements of "Oru-Kami," including architectural plans, sections, and design specifics, interested readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further.

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

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy