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Cork-Insulated Retreat with Circular Design Embracing Interior Greenery

Authors:
Felix Kruthaup, Eduarda Poubel, Muriel Lippert
Cork-Insulated Retreat with Circular Design Embracing Interior Greenery

Project in-detail

Emphasizing a cork-insulated structure and circular footprint, this design seamlessly integrates indoor greenery to create a tranquil retreat that fosters community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure utilizes cork insulation to enhance thermal performance while minimizing environmental impact.
02
A central planted feature promotes biodiversity and enhances indoor air quality.
03
The circular footprint fosters a sense of community and encourages natural interaction among occupants.
04
Greywater recycling systems are integrated to support sustainable water usage throughout the facility.
05
Charred wooden shingles provide weather resistance and an aesthetic connection to traditional building practices.
The architectural project "O Canto das Lágimas" is a thoughtful exploration of the interaction between built structures and the natural landscape. Situated in a serene environment, this design reflects an understanding of how architecture can foster a deeper connection with nature while serving practical functions. The project embodies a philosophy of merging human experience with environmental sensitivity, aiming to provide a space that is both functional and reflective of its surroundings.

At its core, "O Canto das Lágimas" represents the harmonious relationship between people and nature. The architectural design prioritizes sustainability, utilizing materials and techniques that minimize ecological impact. The structure’s layout encourages occupants to engage with the landscape, emphasizing moments of solitude and communal gatherings alike. By incorporating elements such as natural light and open spaces, the project invites a contemplative experience that nurtures well-being and connection.

The architectural design features a circular layout, grounding the structure in a sense of unity and completeness. This plan is significant as it promotes an inclusive atmosphere, encouraging interaction without losing the essence of personal privacy. The roof is sloped and crafted using cork, a material selected for its thermal performance and natural origins. This choice not only contributes to insulation but also blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment. The roof serves as a protective canopy, creating a comfortable microclimate below.

The building's walls are designed with variable heights, strategically allowing light to filter into the interior while maintaining privacy where needed. This thoughtful approach enhances both the acoustics and the overall ambiance, offering a quiet refuge from the outside world. The use of natural stone in the flooring adds a tactile quality, further enriching the user experience and connecting the occupants to the essence of the earth.

One of the notable aspects of "O Canto das Lágimas" is its innovative foundation system, which echoes the forms of trees to respect the existing landscape. This design not only minimizes disruption to the natural ecosystem but also symbolizes growth and resilience, attributes that resonate deeply in the context of the project. Inside, a central feature—whether it be a tree or a planted element—serves as a focal point, emphasizing the importance of nature and its role in the human experience.

The project embraces ecological practices, from the selection of sustainable materials like timber and cork to the implementation of greywater treatment systems, which reduce water usage and promote self-sufficiency. Such choices underscore a commitment to responsible architecture, demonstrating how design can support environmental stewardship while maintaining aesthetic integrity.

The unique design approaches applied in "O Canto das Lágimas" reflect a nuanced understanding of architectural principles that prioritize sustainability and human interaction. The careful integration of indoor and outdoor spaces encourages occupants to engage with their environment, promoting health and well-being. By fostering a sense of community through spatial arrangements, the design emerges as a template for contemporary architecture that respects both its inhabitants and the ecological systems that sustain them.

As you delve deeper into the architectural presentation of "O Canto das Lágimas," you will discover remarkable details in the architectural plans, sections, and ideas that enhance understanding of this project. Explore the intricacies of the design and see how it embodies a thoughtful balance between architecture and nature.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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