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Compressed Stones and Impregnated Wood Create Sustainable Retreat in Nature

Authors:
Izabelė Jasaitytė, Gintarė Grikienytė, Elzė Andriuškevičiūtė, Ričardas Volkavičius
Compressed Stones and Impregnated Wood Create Sustainable Retreat in Nature

Project in-detail

Constructed from compressed stones and impregnated wood, the design offers a sustainable retreat that emphasizes a deep connection with nature while serving as a tranquil space for yoga and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using compressed stones for structural support.
02
Features an extensive green roof for rainwater management.
03
Sleeping pods are oriented to maximize natural light.
04
Incorporates a rainwater recycling system for sustainability.
05
Uses impregnated wood to enhance durability and aesthetic.

The architectural design project "HUMAN CAVE" is located in a tranquil natural setting, aimed at creating a retreat for relaxation and spiritual growth. The design revolves around a cave, representing safety and shelter while encouraging a deep connection to the environment. This space is dedicated to activities like yoga and meditation, featuring both private and communal areas that foster introspection and togetherness.

Conceptual Framework

The design emphasizes an immersive experience, inspired by the natural qualities of caves. Several sleeping pods are carefully arranged, oriented to the southwest to take advantage of sunlight and blend with the landscape. This layout helps occupants feel secure, allowing them to escape the stresses of everyday life and connect with the natural world around them.



Materiality and Sustainability

This project uses specific materials that support both the structure and environmental goals. Compressed stones in a steel mesh make up the framework for the green roof, which plays an essential role in energy efficiency and offers ecological benefits. The green roof collects rainwater, enhances biodiversity, and assists in maintaining indoor temperatures, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainable building methods.



Interior Design and Functionality

Inside the sleeping pods, comfort and practicality are paramount. Impregnated wooden beams provide a warm feeling while offering structural support. The wooden shell adds to the aesthetic appeal and incorporates intelligent storage solutions through shelves, keeping living spaces organized and free of clutter.



Ecological Systems

A rainwater recycling system is included in the design, illustrating a practical approach to managing water resources. Water is collected from rainfall, filtered, and stored in an underground tank, which is then used for essential tasks such as flushing toilets and showering. This focus on resource efficiency reinforces the relationship between the architectural design and the natural environment.



A notable design detail is the open-air space that allows occupants to engage with the surrounding landscape, completing the experience of comfort within the built environment and the peacefulness of nature.

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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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