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Charred Wooden Shingles and Coarse Stone Create a Sustainable Retreat Embracing Nature

Author:
Min ji Kang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Coarse Stone Create a Sustainable Retreat Embracing Nature

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and irregular coarse stone envelop a structure designed for immersive tea-making experiences, cultivating a deep connection with the surrounding forest landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing aesthetic warmth.
02
Coarse stone walls contribute to thermal mass and natural insulation.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes structural efficiency and spatial volume.
04
Large glass openings seamlessly connect interior spaces with the forest landscape.
05
Dedicated tea-making workshops promote cultural engagement and experiential learning.
The Tea Maker Guest House is an architectural project designed to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, creating an environment that promotes relaxation and immersion in nature. This guest house serves multiple functions, catering to visitors who seek both accommodation and an interactive experience in tea-making practices. The architecture demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, utilizing materials and design strategies that enhance the building's relationship with its site.

The project embodies a philosophy of ecological harmony, integrating indoor and outdoor spaces. Large glass facades invite natural light and offer expansive views of the surrounding landscape, effectively reducing the barrier between the interior and exterior. The design prioritizes user experience through careful spatial organization, ensuring comfort and accessibility throughout the guest house.

Materiality is a key aspect of the project. A combination of softwoods, irregular coarse stones, and glass creates a tactile environment grounded in natural elements. Wood surfaces provide warmth, while stone accents add a rustic character, emphasizing the relationship between the building and its natural context. The use of glass not only enhances visual connections but also contributes to energy efficiency by optimizing daylight use.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the standout features of the Tea Maker Guest House is its dual function. The inclusion of a dedicated workshop area for tea-making allows guests to engage in cultural practices, turning accommodation into an educational experience. This focus on local traditions enhances the overall user engagement and promotes a deeper connection with the site.

The architectural form prioritizes ventilation and natural light through strategically placed openings, allowing for a passive approach to climate control. Large sliding doors and pivoted windows enable flexible interactions with the environment, fostering an overall sense of openness. Skylights are integrated throughout the design, promoting daylighting and connecting occupants with the natural rhythms of the day.

Sustainable practices are woven into the project's fabric, with an emphasis on renewable materials and a design that minimizes ecological impact. This architectural approach not only respects the environment but also provides long-term benefits for energy efficiency.

Innovative Engagement with Nature

The spatial organization within the Tea Maker Guest House thoughtfully considers both functionality and aesthetics. The arrangement includes a yoga space designed for mindfulness, reflecting a commitment to wellness in the guest experience. Spaces are purposefully arranged to promote interaction with the surrounding landscape, making nature an integral part of daily activities.

The project also employs a strategy of maximizing natural airflow, enhancing indoor air quality and occupant comfort. With a design that minimizes reliance on mechanical systems, the project exemplifies a modern approach to sustainable architecture.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Tea Maker Guest House, individuals are encouraged to delve into the architectural plans, sections, and design details presented. Exploring these elements will provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas that define this project and its contributions to sustainable design.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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