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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Embrace Nature in a Tea-Focused Retreat

Authors:
Idan Ben-hamo, Alon Lifshitz
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Embrace Nature in a Tea-Focused Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design harmonizes with its snowy surroundings while creating an immersive environment for tea enthusiasts seeking both relaxation and education.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels create a lightweight structure that supports the bent A-frame design.
03
Large glass facades offer unobstructed views of the surrounding natural landscape, fostering a connection with nature.
04
Dedicated spaces for tea workshops emphasize a holistic approach to tea culture and community engagement.
05
Sustainable landscaping incorporates native plant species, enhancing biodiversity while minimizing environmental impact.
The Teamakers Guest House is an architectural project that embodies a thoughtful synthesis of nature and human interaction, designed to create a serene environment deeply rooted in the art of tea production. This unique facility serves as a guest house, welcoming visitors to immerse themselves in the world of tea while also providing them with an opportunity to engage with the surrounding landscape. The project reflects a philosophy that prioritizes an experiential relationship with the natural world, emphasizing the subtle connections between architecture, nature, and culture.

At its core, the Teamakers Guest House functions as both a retreat and a learning center, offering spaces dedicated to both relaxation and educational workshops related to tea cultivation and preparation. The design underscores the architectural intent to foster community engagement, making it a place where individuals can gather, learn, and appreciate the intricacies of tea making. This dual functionality is seamlessly integrated into the design, ensuring that every area supports its intended use while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic.

The architectural design features a fluid and organic form that resonates with its snowy landscape. The building incorporates a unique thatched roof, harmonizing the structure with its natural surroundings and emphasizing a sense of grounding in the environment. The use of local materials is prominent, showcasing an understanding of regional characteristics while enhancing the building's relationship with the site. Key elements such as wood, stone, concrete, and glass are employed to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

The interior spaces are thoughtfully organized to prioritize both social interaction and moments of solitude, reflecting the essence of tea culture. On the ground floor, visitors find a communal gathering area designed for shared experiences, complemented by dedicated spaces for tea preparation and packaging. The close interaction with the tea production process emphasizes the importance of craftsmanship and the narratives behind each cup of tea. This careful spatial arrangement encourages engagement while preserving the privacy of individual experiences.

Natural light plays a significant role in the overall design, with large glass panels allowing for expansive views of the surrounding landscape. This not only fills the interior with natural illumination but also strengthens the connection between the indoor and outdoor environments. The integration of nature is further reflected in the project’s landscaping, which incorporates native flora, inviting biodiversity and creating a seamless transition from built form to natural beauty.

The design process embodies a respect for sustainability, with selected materials chosen for their aesthetic and environmental merits. The building’s structure prioritizes energy efficiency, minimizing its ecological footprint. This commitment to sustainability extends beyond mere material selection, incorporating building techniques that enhance the longevity and resilience of the architecture.

A notable aspect of the Teamakers Guest House is its innovative approach to creating immersive experiences. By offering workshops related to tea production, the project fosters community interaction and provides educational opportunities that deepens visitors' appreciation for tea culture. The spaces are designed not only for functionality but also to inspire curiosity and engagement, encouraging guests to explore the intricacies of tea from cultivation to preparation.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the Teamakers Guest House further through architectural plans and sections that detail the thoughtful intricacies of the design. These elements illustrate the architectural ideas that shape the project, providing insights into how each component contributes to the overall vision. The architectural intent behind the design merits careful consideration for those interested in the interplay between architecture and nature.

In conclusion, the Teamakers Guest House offers a meaningful exploration of the relationship between architecture, nature, and cultural practices surrounding tea. Its design serves as a testament to the possibilities of integrating natural elements with thoughtful architectural solutions, inviting visitors to experience tea in an entirely new context. For those looking to gain deeper insights into the architectural philosophies at play, the detailed design presentations are a valuable resource. Engage with the project and discover the intricacies of its architectural designs and concepts.
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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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