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Circular Structures Enhanced by Maritime Pine and Natural Light for Wellness Retreats

Author:
Angeline Ng
Circular Structures Enhanced by Maritime Pine and Natural Light for Wellness Retreats

Project in-detail

Constructed using maritime pine and designed with a circular layout that maximizes natural light, the retreat fosters wellness and communal engagement in a tranquil environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Uses locally sourced maritime pine to enhance sustainability and reduce environmental impact.
02
Features a circular design that encourages both privacy and communal interaction among users.
03
Incorporates large openings for natural light, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere.
04
Integrates water features that contribute to the tranquil soundscape of the environment.
05
Utilizes organic materials for storage solutions, reinforcing the connection to nature.

The Equilibrium architectural project is situated in Portugal, designed to foster a connection between individuals and their natural surroundings. This project serves the dual purpose of providing personal wellness retreats and promoting communal interaction through its organized layout. The design emphasizes tranquility, with structures arranged in a circular formation that encourages engagement with both nature and community.

The architectural approach prioritizes sustainable practices, utilizing locally sourced materials such as maritime pine for structural integrity, concrete for stability, and steel for window frames. The materials chosen not only ensure durability but also integrate seamlessly with the environment, enhancing the natural aesthetic of the site. The circular buildings are equipped with large openings that facilitate natural light, creating an inviting ambiance while maintaining a close relationship with the landscape.

Unique Design Approaches

The design of the Equilibrium project stands out due to its holistic integration of wellness and community. Each structure features a circular layout that allows for an unobstructed flow of space, promoting both individual reflection and communal activities. The specific placement of water features enhances auditory tranquility, while the arrangement encourages social interaction without compromising privacy.

Furthermore, interior spaces are designed to be functional yet serene, including practical amenities that support wellness activities. Storage solutions, constructed from organic materials like pine branches, complement the overall aesthetic and promote sustainability. This attention to both form and function illustrates a commitment to creating environments conducive to healing and relaxation.

Architectural Detailing

Important elements of the design include shared spaces such as terraces and meditative areas that facilitate communal engagement. The use of natural stone and warm wood tones throughout these areas reinforces the connection to nature, providing a multisensory experience. The project employs a thoughtful integration of architectural features, such as rounded roofs and organic materials, which contribute to the overall experience of balance and harmony.

For those interested in a comprehensive understanding of the Equilibrium project, further exploration of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas is recommended. Detailed presentations will provide deeper insights into the unique elements and strategies employed in this architectural endeavor.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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