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Cocoon-Like Retreat Crafted from Local Timber Logs

Author:
Inbar Meital
Cocoon-Like Retreat Crafted from Local Timber Logs

Project in-detail

A cocoon-like structure built from local timber logs provides a serene space for meditation and self-reflection, harmonizing indoor comfort with the beauty of its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cocoon-like interior design enhances user comfort and introspective experiences.
02
Dual-axis orientation balances sunlight intake and wind protection.
03
Structured using local timber logs, promoting sustainability and regional identity.
04
Passive ventilation allows for natural airflow and temperature regulation.
05
Framed openings provide unique views of the surrounding valley landscape.

The Kiwi cabin is set in a natural landscape that emphasizes harmony with its surroundings. The design aims to create a space for meditation and self-reflection, drawing inspiration from the gentle shape of the kiwi bird. With its soft, rounded profile, the cabin offers a place for people to connect with nature while enjoying a tranquil retreat.

Form and Spatial Organization

The structure comprises two parallel spaces divided by a perforated skin. This design creates a cocoon-like interior that encourages calmness and openness. The north-south axis is intentionally left open to welcome sunlight and breezes, while the east-west axis is closed to provide protection from harsh winds and direct sunlight. This specific orientation highlights the cabin’s responsiveness to the climate, ensuring comfort for its occupants.



Materiality and Construction

Local timber logs are fundamental to the cabin's construction. They have a profile of 15 x 15 cm and a length of 180 cm, complemented by a wood frame with a thickness of 5 cm and a depth of 60 cm. The logs are arranged in an offset manner, creating a lightweight structure that allows light and air to flow freely. This arrangement not only enhances the spatial quality but also simplifies the assembly process, making it easy to organize and construct on-site.



Natural Light and Ventilation

Natural light plays an important role in the cabin's design. Openings in the structure allow soft, filtered sunlight to illuminate the interior throughout the day. This helps to create a warm atmosphere while blocking harsh sunlight. The larger apertures facilitate passive ventilation, allowing warm air to escape and maintaining a comfortable climate without mechanical systems.



Connection to the Surroundings

The cabin’s form allows for varied views, providing both close glimpses of the surrounding greenery and broader perspectives of the valley. This design integrates direct frames that highlight the landscape, reinforcing the relationship between the interior space and the natural environment. Attention to these details encourages occupants to appreciate the beauty of nature from within, creating a fulfilling experience during their time in the cabin.

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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

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