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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glazed Barn Design Enhancing Wellness in a Nature Retreat

Authors:
Lucile Roux, Julie Hamard, Océane Morillon
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glazed Barn Design Enhancing Wellness in a Nature Retreat

Project in-detail

Built with charred wooden shingles and expansive glass façades that seamlessly blend with the surrounding forest, this retreat invites guests to experience wellness and connection through nature-inspired design.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances durability while providing a unique aesthetic that blends with the natural environment.
02
Expansive glass facades maximize natural light and offer unobstructed views of the surrounding forest landscape.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels ensure structural integrity while promoting eco-friendliness and sustainability.
04
The bent A-frame design promotes efficient rainwater drainage while creating an inviting and visually dynamic interior space.
05
Dedicated spaces for herbal tea workshops and meditation foster a sense of community and connection among guests.
The Ozolini Guesthouse embodies a thoughtful intersection of contemporary architecture and traditional design, providing a harmonized retreat within a lush forested landscape. Located in a tranquil area that encourages relaxation and a connection to nature, this architectural project serves a dual purpose: creating a space for visitors seeking rejuvenation and offering a venue for wellness-focused workshops, particularly centered around the art of tea preparation. The design reflects an understanding of both the functional needs of guests and the desire to engage with the soothing environment that surrounds the structure.

At its core, the guesthouse represents a commitment to sustainability and community. The project emphasizes an eco-conscious approach, utilizing materials that not only contribute to the aesthetic but also enhance energy efficiency and minimize environmental impact. The choice of natural stone for the building's primary structure establishes a sense of solidity, grounding the design in its context. The extensive use of glass amplifies this connection, allowing natural light to permeate the interiors and offering sweeping views of the changing seasons, thus integrating the architectural experience with the rhythm of nature.

The layout of the guesthouse is carefully articulated to ensure functionality while promoting a sense of openness. The ground floor features dedicated spaces for meditation, living, and kitchen areas, effectively supporting diverse activities and facilitating guest interaction. Up on the first floor, three guest rooms are designed with comfort in mind, each equipped with adjacent bathrooms to provide an inviting atmosphere for guests. Shared circulation spaces are strategically situated to encourage movement throughout the guesthouse while offering private corners for quiet reflection.

One of the unique design approaches of the Ozolini Guesthouse is its emphasis on creating versatile communal spaces. These areas are not only intended for relaxation but also serve an educational purpose, hosting workshops that bring guests together for learning experiences, particularly in herbal tea preparation and meditation practices. This focus on community and shared learning distinguishes the guesthouse from typical accommodation, fostering bonds among visitors and promoting a deeper engagement with the local culture.

The architectural execution manifests a blend of traditional and modern elements, echoing the historical context of barn-like structures while incorporating contemporary features that enhance user experience. The gable roof, a nod to traditional forms, provides both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits, including effective drainage and ventilation. Meanwhile, the intricate design of the interior spaces complements the building's rustic charm, creating an environment that feels both timeless and fresh.

The successful integration of different materials further enhances the overall architectural vision. Wood accents are employed throughout the interiors, adding warmth and texture to the space, while carefully chosen finishes support the eco-friendly ethos of the project. Each material is thoughtfully selected to align with the intent of fostering a serene atmosphere, contributing to a cohesive design narrative.

In summary, the Ozolini Guesthouse stands as a noteworthy example of how architectural design can promote a holistic lifestyle while remaining responsive to its environment. By prioritizing sustainability, community engagement, and aesthetic coherence, the project offers a distinguished experience for its visitors. For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this architectural endeavor, including the architectural plans and sections, it is recommended to view the full project presentation, as it provides deeper insight into the architectural ideas that shaped the guesthouse.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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