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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades in a Community Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Disha Shah, Rajvi Pattani, Nikita Raut, Prachi Mishra
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades in a Community Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and expansive glass façades, the design embraces a sustainable aesthetic that fosters connection with nature, while serving as a wellness retreat for community engagement and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to promote sustainability and reduce carbon footprint.
03
Features a bent A-frame design, optimizing structural integrity while maximizing natural light.
04
Integrates a sauna as a central component, reflecting local wellness traditions.
05
Arranged in a triangular layout to foster community interaction and efficient space usage.
The architectural design project presented showcases a thoughtful integration of various functional spaces, conveying a strong respect for the natural environment while serving the needs of its users. The overall concept reflects a commitment to community, leisure, and wellbeing, making it a multifaceted space that is both welcoming and practical. At its core, this project represents a harmonious blend of architecture and nature, focusing on sustainability and user experience.

The design features a well-defined spatial organization that encompasses several key components vital to its functionality. The reception area serves as the initial point of interaction, welcoming visitors and establishing an inviting atmosphere. Adjacent to the reception, a game zone is designed to encourage social interaction and leisure activities, providing a dynamic space for various recreational pursuits. The inclusion of a sauna highlights the project's emphasis on wellness and relaxation, aligning with cultural practices in regions where such amenities are prized for their health benefits.

The gathering space is another important aspect, engineered for communal events and activities. This area fosters a sense of connection among users, enhancing the overall experience of the project. The dining area, essential for hospitality, facilitates nourishment and social gatherings, further contributing to the communal feel. The design also accommodates residential needs with a host's house and dedicated staff quarters, ensuring comfort for both guests and staff alike. Additionally, the presence of guest houses provides private retreats for visitors, enhancing their stay while maintaining a level of intimacy.

One notable feature of this project is its triangular arrangement, which promotes an efficient flow through the site while maximizing views and light exposure. The layout not only optimizes the use of space but also reflects the organic contours of the surrounding landscape, reinforcing a dialogue between built and natural environments. This design approach enhances the accessibility of each area, making it easy for users to navigate while appreciating the serene setting.

Materiality plays a significant role in the architectural expression of this project. Steel plates and steel lally posts provide the necessary structural integrity, showcasing a modern approach to construction that prioritizes durability. Lumber is thoughtfully incorporated to offer a warm aesthetic, grounding the project in natural elements. Glass paneling is strategically utilized to facilitate an abundance of natural light, creating a transparent barrier that blurs the line between indoor and outdoor environments. The inclusion of a sloping roof is both functional, managing snow accumulation, and aesthetic, echoing the natural lines of the landscape.

The project’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its material choices and design strategies. By using locally sourced materials and emphasizing passive solar design through glass use, the architecture reduces its carbon footprint while promoting energy efficiency. The thoughtful placement of spaces reflects a genuine understanding of the local climate, ensuring that the building adapts seamlessly to its surroundings.

What stands out about this architectural project is its ability to balance various uses and functionalities while remaining sensitive to its environment. The convergence of traditional elements with modern design allows it to resonate with local cultural practices while appealing to contemporary architectural sensibilities. The interplay of social spaces and private retreats caters to diverse needs, providing an enriching experience for all users.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of this architectural design and its outcomes, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. Detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs reveal the intricacies of the project, offering insights into the underlying ideas and thoughtful approaches that shape this space.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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