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 Cross-Laminated Timber Define an Eco-Friendly Micro Retreat

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define an Eco-Friendly Micro Retreat
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this micro retreat minimizes environmental impact while offering a serene space for reflection and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from locally sourced materials to reduce carbon footprint.
02
Features a unique bent A-frame design that enhances structural stability and aesthetics.
03
Incorporates a solar chimney for passive ventilation and thermal comfort.
04
Utilizes a Canadian well system for natural climate control without energy input.
05
Includes a multifunctional outdoor terrace that extends the living space into nature.

## Project Overview

The microhome named "Contemplation" is located in La Hiruela, Spain, within a scenic rural setting. This project emphasizes a harmonious integration with the natural landscape, aiming to create a space conducive to reflection and a deep connection with the environment. Its design philosophy incorporates sustainability and minimalism, focusing on enhancing the user experience while fostering a profound interaction with the surrounding natural elements.

## Spatial Conception and Interior Organization

The architectural layout of "Contemplation" encompasses a main floor area of approximately 16.4 m², structured to facilitate both functionality and adaptability. Key sections include an entrance area that serves as a transitional space, a versatile living area that accommodates various activities, and sleeping quarters designed for comfort and introspection. Additionally, the compact bathroom incorporates essential amenities without compromising space, while a cleverly integrated storage room contributes to the overall tidiness of the microhome. A terrace extends from the living space, promoting outdoor engagement and reinforcing the connection to the natural environment.

## Material Selection and Environmental Integration

The material palette for "Contemplation" is carefully selected for sustainability and aesthetic appeal. Indigenous wood species are extensively used to reduce the carbon footprint, while large glass openings facilitate a strong indoor-outdoor relationship. Recycled and sustainable materials are incorporated throughout the design, emphasizing minimal environmental impact. The microhome's environmental features include an innovative solar chimney for natural ventilation, a biomass heating system, a Canadian well for climate regulation, and integrated photovoltaics for energy independence, collectively ensuring a minimal ecological footprint.

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

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 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
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
new
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 15 July 2026
new
The Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 July 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026
new
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 29 July 2026
new
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 30 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 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
Final registration deadline 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026
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

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

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

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy