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Circular Retreat Crafted from Local Timber Panels and Seamless Landscape Integration

Authors:
Baldur Snorrason, Erla Ólafsdóttir
Circular Retreat Crafted from Local Timber Panels and Seamless Landscape Integration

Project in-detail

Crafted from locally sourced timber panels and thoughtfully arranged in a circular formation, the retreat offers poets a serene environment that harmonizes private reflection with community engagement amidst a beautifully integrated landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates locally sourced materials to enhance sustainability and community connection.
02
Features a circular layout that promotes both privacy and communal interaction among residents.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for natural weather resistance and an earthy aesthetic.
04
Designed with large windows that maximize natural light and provide panoramic views of the landscape.
05
Includes a central garden space that acts as a gathering place for inspiration and creativity.
The project "Both Sides of the Circle" exemplifies a thoughtful architectural design that focuses on creating a retreat for poets by intertwining communal experiences with personal reflection. This architectural endeavor aims to celebrate the essence of storytelling and human connection, resonating with the ancient practice of gathering around a central hearth, but with a modern touch. The design approach is rooted in the idea that physical space can enhance creativity by fostering both solitude and collaboration among its users.

At the heart of the project is a circular arrangement that serves as a metaphor for unity and continuity. The circular form contributes to an inclusive environment, where individual "bed huts" surround a central garden, allowing for a sense of community while ensuring personal privacy. This architectural strategy not only creates a sense of belonging but also encourages poets to engage with the landscape around them, offering opportunities for inspiration and contemplation. The emphasis on nature is evident throughout the design, as the garden space integrates a variety of plant life, enhancing the sensory experience for the residents.

Functionally, the project accommodates diverse needs, providing private living spaces alongside communal areas that cultivate interactions. Each hut is designed with natural wood materials, promoting a warm and inviting atmosphere. Large windows allow for ample daylight and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding environment, thereby blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. This design choice enhances both comfort and functionality, creating a retreat that harmonizes with its natural setting.

The shared communal areas, such as gathering spaces for dining and informal interaction, reinforce social engagement. These spaces are designed to encourage creativity and collaboration while enabling poets to share their experiences and support one another in their endeavors. The pathway that encircles the garden facilitates movement and connection, promoting a sense of community among the residents.

A unique aspect of "Both Sides of the Circle" lies in its sustainable design principles. The use of locally sourced materials minimizes the environmental impact while ensuring that the structures blend into the surrounding landscape. The incorporation of gardens not only provides food and beauty but also instills a sense of responsibility towards ecological stewardship among its users.

The thoughtful integration of architecture and nature is a defining characteristic of this project, leading to an environment that nurtures the poetic spirit. Designers employed innovative solutions that align with the broader vision of creating a retreat tailored to the needs of writers, artists, and thinkers. This design approach highlights the significance of a supportive community while promoting individual creativity.

As you explore the intricate details of "Both Sides of the Circle," consider examining the architectural plans and sections that illustrate the relationship between different spaces within the project. Delving into the architectural designs and ideas will provide deeper insights into how this retreat not only serves its functional purposes but also embodies a philosophy of connection and inspiration, bridging the gap between solitude and the communal experience. The project invites you to engage with its essence and encourages a closer look at how architecture can influence the creative process.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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