Get inspired!

17,363 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Plywood Sleeping Pods Nestled in a Cliffside Retreat

Authors:
Pedro Adaixo, Diogo Coelho, Paulo Moreira, David De sá
Charred Wooden Shingles and Plywood Sleeping Pods Nestled in a Cliffside Retreat

Project in-detail

Nestled against a cliff, the use of charred wooden shingles and plywood in the design creates a seamless blend with the natural landscape, offering a serene retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles using the traditional Shou Sugi Ban technique for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
The bent A-frame structure optimizes natural light and panoramic views from the elevated bedroom space.
03
Each sleeping pod is raised off the ground to minimize environmental impact and erosion on the cliffside.
04
Plywood is utilized extensively, providing warmth and reducing construction waste through modular design.
05
An outdoor shower integrates with the natural landscape, promoting a connection between users and their environment.
The Pé de Feijão project, situated in Vale de Moses, is an architectural design for sleeping pods perched on a cliffside. It represents a fusion of minimalism and environmental integration, focusing on sustainable practices while enhancing the user experience. The design's goal is to provide a tranquil retreat that connects inhabitants to nature, offering personal space within a shared environment.

The main function of the project is to serve as a retreat space for individuals seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, emphasizing a harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape. The choice of location takes advantage of the natural topography, allowing the structure to blend seamlessly into its environment with minimal disturbance to the terrain. The architectural design incorporates three levels, each serving distinct purposes: an outdoor closet and shower on the ground floor, storage and bathroom facilities on the first floor, and a bedroom space on the upper level, which offers expansive views through large windows.

The structure employs innovative design approaches that promote sustainability and user interaction. The concept of vertical growth reflects a beanstalk, symbolizing expansion while minimizing the building’s footprint. This design ethos also influences the selection of materials which include plywood, steel, and natural wood treated using the Shou Sugi Ban technique. These materials have been chosen for their durability and low environmental impact. The use of steel in the framework provides stability, while plywood enhances warmth in the interiors.

The architectural organization is carefully calibrated to enhance the user experience, inviting occupants to traverse through different atmospheres created by the various spaces. The ground level fosters direct connection with the natural environment, while the upper levels provide comfort and privacy. Each transition between floors is designed to encourage movement and engagement with the surrounding landscape.

Natural light is a significant consideration in the design, particularly with the fenestration that optimizes brightness while maintaining privacy in the bathroom areas. The large windows in the bedroom allow for unobstructed views and a sense of openness, reinforcing the project's intent of merging indoor spaces with the outdoors.

The design factors heavily into sustainable principles by ensuring minimal light pollution and allowing for easy assembly and disassembly of the structure. This approach encompasses both ecological respect and user convenience, ultimately enhancing the overall design narrative.

The Pé de Feijão project stands out in its thoughtful approach to architecture, emphasizing verticality, sustainability, and a deliberate connection to the natural setting. It challenges conventional retreat designs through a comprehensive understanding of materiality, spatial organization, and user experience. For further insights into this architectural design, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for a deeper understanding of its innovative elements.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
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
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 17,363 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