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Charred Wooden Shingles and Fluid Forms Create a Serene Retreat for Reflection and Community

Author:
Laurine Hermouet
Charred Wooden Shingles and Fluid Forms Create a Serene Retreat for Reflection and Community

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wooden shingles and composed of fluid forms that echo natural landscapes, this retreat facilitates both communal interaction and personal reflection within a thoughtfully designed environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and visual texture.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that harmonizes with the surrounding landscape.
04
Offers dedicated communal spaces adjacent to private poet huts for balanced interaction.
05
Includes outdoor meditation areas that seamlessly connect with the natural environment.
The project, referred to as "The Drops," represents a multifunctional retreat designed with the aim of integrating architecture with its natural surroundings. Situated within a lush landscape, this architectural design prioritizes both communal interactions and individual reflection, creating spaces that foster a profound connection with nature. The design draws inspiration from the forms and fluidity of water droplets, exemplifying a thematic consistency throughout.

The architectural layout includes both communal and private areas. Key features encompass a central communal hub, individual living units, and outdoor spaces designed for meditation and interaction with the environment. By employing organic shapes and a harmonious color palette, the structure blends seamlessly with its surroundings, reinforcing the project's overarching concept of unity with nature.

Architectural Integration with Nature

One of the defining characteristics of "The Drops" is its deliberate integration with the natural environment. The project features communal areas, such as a spacious kitchen and dining room, designed for social activities. This layout encourages occupants to gather and engage in communal meals and shared experiences, fostering community bonds. Adjacent to these spaces is the communal area, which allows for performances and exhibitions, maximizing natural light and facilitating fluid movement between indoors and outdoors.

The individual living units, termed “Poet Huts,” embody the project's commitment to solitude while remaining connected to the larger community. Each hut is constructed from locally sourced, recycled timber, offering both durability and a sustainable approach to materiality. The positioning of these units allows for privacy while maintaining visual access to communal areas, ensuring that residents feel part of the retreat's social fabric.

Sustainable Material Choices

The architectural design emphasizes sustainability through its choice of materials. Timber, prominently featured throughout the project, provides ecological benefits by minimizing the carbon footprint associated with transportation. The use of durable cladding with a black finish not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the project's resilience against environmental wear and tear. Glass is utilized in communal spaces, promoting natural illumination while creating a visual connection to the surrounding landscape. The choice of materials supports the project’s overall intent of linking architecture with nature, enhancing both user experience and environmental stewardship.

For a comprehensive understanding of "The Drops," including architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs, exploring the project presentation is highly recommended. Engaging with these elements will provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas that underpin this unique design.
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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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