Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

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

Circular Retreat Constructed With Thermowood and Fiberglass for Sustainable Living

Author:
Jin Liu
Circular Retreat Constructed With Thermowood and Fiberglass for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with thermowood and featuring a circular design, the cabin integrates fiberglass elements to create a sustainable retreat space dedicated to meditation and personal reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with thermowood for enhanced durability and sustainability.
02
Circular design optimizes social interaction and acoustic quality.
03
Extensive use of glass creates seamless connections with the landscape.
04
Incorporates a composting toilet for minimal environmental impact.
05
Open concept layout allows for natural light and ventilation throughout.
The Medirest Cabin is a thoughtfully designed architectural project that serves as a retreat for meditation and relaxation, seamlessly integrating with its wooded surroundings. This compact structure offers a tranquil environment that promotes personal reflection and connection with nature. The design emphasizes sustainability, utilizing materials that enhance both performance and aesthetics.

With a floor area of approximately 15 square meters, the cabin’s circular footprint provides an efficient spatial organization conducive to communal interaction while maintaining individuality in usage. The central hearth serves as both a heating source and a social focal point, reinforcing the cabin's primary function as a gathering space. Extensive use of glass throughout the structure fosters a visual connection with the outdoors, allowing natural light to flood the interior while offering unobstructed views of the surrounding forest. Key features, such as the mosquito net door, reflect practical considerations for user comfort.

Unique Design Approaches and Materials

A defining characteristic of the Medirest Cabin is its circular design, which distinguishes it from conventional rectangular layouts. This geometry not only optimizes space but also enhances acoustic qualities, creating an inviting atmosphere for meditation and other communal activities. The choice of Thermowood and natural wood for the cabin's construction emphasizes durability, while fiberglass roofing contributes to the lightweight structure without compromising safety.

The project prioritizes minimal environmental impact through careful site selection and design. It employs eco-friendly practices, such as the integration of a composting toilet, aligning with sustainable living principles. This meticulous attention to materiality and function ensures the cabin remains in harmony with the ecosystem, contributing to conservation efforts.

Interior Layout and Functional Details

The internal layout of the Medirest Cabin is designed with functionality in mind. The open concept facilitates movement and interaction among occupants without impediment. Ventilation and natural light are maximized through strategically placed windows and doors, enhancing the overall user experience. The design integrates solar-powered LED lighting, reinforcing energy-efficient practices while maintaining a serene ambience during nighttime use.

Attention to these architectural details and the use of sustainable materials positions the Medirest Cabin as a model for future retreat spaces that aim for harmony between architectural intent and environmental responsibility.

To gain deeper insights into the Medirest Cabin, including architectural plans, sections, and further design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation.
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 17,249 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