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Cocoon Enclosure with Norway Spruce Emphasizing Natural Balance in a Forest Retreat

Authors:
Isamu Kanda, Sangsuri Chun
Cocoon Enclosure with Norway Spruce Emphasizing Natural Balance in a Forest Retreat
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A cocoon enclosure crafted from Norway Spruce rises above the forest floor, offering a tranquil retreat designed for meditation and introspection while emphasizing a deep connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cocoon-like enclosure enhances privacy while connecting to the forest.
02
Spiral staircase integrates with the structure's upward flow.
03
Circular skylight fosters a unique relationship with the tree canopy.
04
Norway Spruce chosen for local sustainability and lightweight properties.
05
Elevated platform design minimizes ecological impact on the surrounding area.

The Tree House is a design that integrates structure and nature, creating a space for contemplation and reflection in a forested environment. It focuses on promoting mindfulness and calm, drawing inspiration from the principles of yoga, particularly the benefits of twisting for maintaining balance. The design allows users to connect deeply with the natural surroundings, offering an opportunity for peace and escape from everyday life.

Conceptual Framework
The design emphasizes simplicity and natural harmony. It provides a setting that encourages self-examination and growth. The tree house has a slender stem that broadens at the top, resembling the growth of trees. As occupants climb the spiral staircase, they reach a hidden room that serves as a retreat. This space filters visual distractions, allowing the sounds and scents of the forest to guide the experience.

Spatial Configuration
The elevated platform is a key feature, surrounded by a protective cocoon-like structure. This design enhances privacy while inviting interaction with the natural landscape. Below the platform, essential items such as water and food can be stored, thus keeping the space open for users to fully engage with their surroundings. A distinctive circular skylight lets in light, fostering an awareness of the tree canopy overhead.

Material and Assembly
The tree house makes use of Norway Spruce, chosen for its local availability and sustainability. The assembly method involves stacking square frames arranged in a pinwheel pattern, which supports the structure's strength and allows for the spiral staircase. Stability is achieved through the use of tie-downs, which minimize the footprint of the design. This approach enables building on uneven ground without disrupting the existing ecosystem.

A suspended fireplace is located in the upper area, providing warmth and light. It enhances both the practical function and aesthetic quality of the tree house. As natural light filters down through the skylight, the design invites occupants to immerse themselves in the forest environment. This creates a serene atmosphere that fosters a sense of connection with nature and encourages moments of quiet reflection.

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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

Open architecture competitions

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    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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