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 Forming a Nature-Focused Wellness Retreat

Author:
Viktoriia Kurhan
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Forming a Nature-Focused Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this architectural retreat integrates a spherical design that fosters wellness and community engagement within a natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Spherical structure enhances spatial efficiency and promotes community engagement.
02
Extensive use of charred wooden shingles for both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels support sustainability and structural integrity.
04
Large glazing elements provide uninterrupted panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
05
Dedicated yoga space under a glass dome fosters a direct connection to the environment.

**Geographical Context and Intent**
Located in an area characterized by lush greenery and natural surroundings, the Geosphere project is designed to promote tranquility and well-being. The intent is to create a space for meditation and communal activities, fostering a connection between occupants and their environment. The spherical form of the structure is central to this vision, reflecting a departure from conventional rectangular designs in favor of a shape that embodies unity and wholeness.

**Material and Structural Composition**
The material selection is crucial for both aesthetic appeal and structural performance. Large glass panels comprise the facade, ensuring ample natural light and providing expansive views of the surrounding landscape. A wooden framework, likely utilizing engineered timber, supports the glazing, contributing both warmth and structural integrity. Interior spaces feature wooden flooring, enhancing the organic feel of the environment. Additionally, metal components are incorporated into the structure to ensure durability. Sustainable material choices have also been considered, aligning with the project's focus on ecological impact.

**Spatial Functionality and Design Features**
The spatial organization includes two rooms designed to accommodate four individuals, a common area for social interaction, and functional bathrooms. A dedicated yoga and meditation hall, highlighted by a glass dome, serves as the centerpiece of the project, allowing for an immersive experience with nature. This flexible layout supports a range of activities, promoting a lifestyle centered around wellness and mindfulness. The interplay of natural light and the warmth of wood enhances the inviting atmosphere, reinforcing the thoughtful integration of architecture with the surrounding environment.

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