Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Timber Create a Mindful Retreat Home

Author:
Aleksandar Todorov
Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Timber Create a Mindful Retreat Home

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles elegantly wrap a structure built with sustainably sourced timber, creating a serene retreat that seamlessly integrates mindfulness and wellness into everyday living.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure incorporates a bent A-frame design that enhances both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
02
Charred wooden shingles not only provide a unique exterior finish but also offer enhanced durability and fire resistance.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for their sustainability and efficiency in construction, reducing waste.
04
An integrated rainwater collection system supports irrigation and promotes self-sufficiency in water use.
05
Dedicated indoor and outdoor yoga spaces are seamlessly linked to the natural surroundings, fostering a mindful environment.
Pavilion House is an architectural project that embodies a harmonious integration of design and the surrounding natural landscape. It represents a contemporary approach to residential living, focusing on wellness and sustainability while embracing principles derived from yoga philosophy. This project aims to provide a serene retreat, creating spaces that foster mindfulness and tranquility for its inhabitants.

At its core, Pavilion House serves the function of a home designed not just for living but for holistic well-being. The layout features four primary zones: bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, and dedicated yoga spaces. Each zone has been thoughtfully arranged to promote both communal interaction and personal retreat. The bedrooms are situated on the quieter side of the house, designed to offer rest and revitalization. In contrast, the living room, positioned to take full advantage of natural light, encourages social engagement and connection to the outdoor environment. The kitchen serves as a gathering point, reflecting an active lifestyle, while the indoor and outdoor yoga spaces are tailored for personal reflection and practice.

The unique design approach of Pavilion House is rooted in the duality of the Yin and Yang philosophy. This concept manifests through contrasting elements throughout the structure, balancing light and dark both visually and spatially. The entryway serves as a central hub, seamlessly connecting the dynamic and serene areas of the home, which enhances the experience of movement between spaces.

Materiality plays a vital role in the project's identity. The architects chose sustainably sourced wood as the primary building material, bringing warmth and texture to the design while minimizing environmental impact. The use of large glazed panels throughout public spaces invites ample natural light and blurs the boundaries between the interior and exterior, allowing residents to feel closely connected to nature. Additionally, incorporating solar photovoltaic panels and rainwater collection systems demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainable living practices, reinforcing the architectural goal of energy efficiency and resource conservation.

The structural elements of Pavilion House are equally noteworthy. The choice of screw pile foundations allows for stability while minimizing ground disruption, aligning with ecological building methods. Wooden decking extends outward, not only providing functional outdoor living areas but integrating seamlessly with the landscape, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the home. A single-slope roof architecture further contributes to both the visual appeal and practicality of rainwater management.

In summary, Pavilion House is a thoughtfully designed residence that marries architecture with philosophy. Its unique approach to spatial organization, material selection, and sustainability reflects a deep understanding of contemporary living that prioritizes wellness and ecological responsibility. This project illustrates how intelligent design can create spaces that are not only functional but also promote a balanced and mindful lifestyle. For those interested in exploring this project further, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas can provide deeper insights into how these concepts are expertly executed within Pavilion House.
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 16544 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