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Cork-Clad Retreat with Timber Framing and Elevated Views

Authors:
Michele Armando, Gianmaria Quarta, Tianyi Mao
Cork-Clad Retreat with Timber Framing and Elevated Views

Project in-detail

The elevated observation deck offers panoramic views while the cork-clad exterior and timber framing establish a sustainable retreat that encourages both contemplation and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cork cladding enhances thermal insulation and acoustic performance.
02
Timber framing reflects local construction traditions and promotes sustainability.
03
The roof serves as an observation deck for immersive nature views.
04
Two strategically placed windows frame specific landscape vistas.
05
The structure’s design allows adaptability to various terrains.

The Mind Hut is set in a picturesque landscape that highlights the interaction between the building and its natural surroundings. Designed as a space for reflection and gathering, the structure embodies the idea of shelter as a refuge. The overall concept reinterprets traditional architectural forms, using familiar shapes, like a sloped roof, to establish a connection to historical designs while ensuring a distinct separation from the environment.

Materials

The building features a timber frame and interior wood paneling, showcasing simplicity and ease of maintenance. These materials are rooted in local building traditions and help to create a sense of place. The warmth of the timber enhances the comfort of the interiors, inviting people to engage with the space.



At the entrance, steel panels provide a contrast that marks the entry point. This choice of material adds a contemporary element while staying true to the overall design. The combination of timber and steel creates a balance that emphasizes practicality without losing visual harmony.



Cork clads the exterior of the Mind Hut, reflecting a sustainable approach that has local significance. This material is not only functional but also contributes to insulation, providing warmth in winter and coolness in summer. The use of cork demonstrates an awareness of environmental concerns and a commitment to materials that are in harmony with their surroundings.



A notable aspect of the design is the roof, which serves as an observation deck. This feature allows users to appreciate the views and encourages social interaction. The design promotes a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, making it easy for people to move between them. This relationship with nature fosters a sense of tranquility, enhancing the experience of those who visit.

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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

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