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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Create Serene Huts for Creative Retreats

Authors:
Rodrigo Gurgel, Maria clara Freire, Vitoria conrado Alexandre, Rita de cassia Pinheiro gurgel
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Create Serene Huts for Creative Retreats

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and designed to harness natural light, the retreat offers a tranquil environment that fosters creativity and reflection for its occupants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to achieve structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and views.
04
Designed with a retractable roof over communal spaces to seamlessly connect indoors with nature.
05
Includes pathways that encourage exploration and interaction with the surrounding landscape.
The Swinging Pines Poet Huts project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to architecture, merging functionality with a deep appreciation for the surrounding natural environment. Designed as a retreat for inspiration and creativity, the project speaks to the fundamental human desire for connection—both to nature and to one another. Set amid a landscape rich with pine trees and serene water features, the huts create an immersive experience focused on reflection and artistic expression.

At its core, the project functions as a collective and individual retreat for writers and artists seeking solace and inspiration. The design consists of several key components, beginning with the Hosts Hut, which serves as the central hub for communal activities. Here, residents can gather for meals, workshops, or informal discussions, fostering a sense of community among users. The multifunctional space adjacent to the Hosts Hut enhances this idea, providing an adaptable venue for larger gatherings and creative sessions, complete with a retractable roof that enables a seamless connection to the natural surroundings.

The individual huts—specifically designed to accommodate two or four people—offer private sanctuaries that balance comfort with simplicity. Each hut includes essential amenities like kitchenettes, bedrooms, and bathrooms, supporting extended stays while ensuring occupants have access to the necessary facilities. Thoughtful landscaping connects these structures, guiding residents through pathways that invite exploration of the picturesque environment.

A defining element of the Swinging Pines project is its emphasis on sustainability and ecological harmony. The design employs an array of carefully chosen materials, including wood plank flooring, insulated metal panels, and glass elements. These materials not only contribute to the aesthetic quality of the architecture but also to its functional attributes, ensuring energy efficiency and thermal comfort throughout the year. The integration of photovoltaic panels reflects an understanding of the contemporary architectural need for sustainable energy solutions while complementing the overall design ethos.

The unique architectural approach achieved in the project extends beyond mere form and materials; it embodies the rhythm of the landscape itself. The notion of “swinging pines” is metaphorically represented in the dynamic forms of the huts, evoking a sense of movement and fluidity that resonates with the overarching theme of creativity. This connection to nature is further enhanced by the presence of an artificial lake and carefully curated meditation areas, offering spaces for users to engage in quiet contemplation or group reflection.

Special consideration was given to the light and spatial ambiance within the huts. Each space is designed to optimize natural light through strategic placement of windows and glass doors, creating an inviting atmosphere that changes throughout the day. This interaction between indoor and outdoor environments is a significant consideration in the architectural design, ensuring that occupants remain connected to the natural world, even while enjoying the comforts of their private spaces.

As observers engage with the project, they quickly recognize the focus on not only providing shelter but cultivating an environment that promotes artistic productivity and inner peace. The design encourages occupants to immerse themselves in their surroundings, engage with fellow creatives, and ultimately find their voice through the written word or other artistic expressions.

For those interested in gaining deeper insights into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that underpin this innovative project, a thorough exploration of the presentation materials will prove enlightening. The architectural ideas showcased in the Swinging Pines Poet Huts project contribute to a meaningful conversation about the role of architecture in enhancing the human experience, encouraging a thoughtful exploration of how design can serve as a catalyst for creativity in serene, natural settings.
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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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