Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Cork-Insulated Retreat With Green Roofs Emphasizing Modular Design

Authors:
M Lema barros, C Castelo Branco
Cork-Insulated Retreat With Green Roofs Emphasizing Modular Design

Project in-detail

Constructed using natural cork and chestnut wood, this eco/yoga retreat features a modular design with a green roof and advanced rainwater management systems, promoting sustainability within its serene setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cork cladding provides natural insulation and fire resistance.
02
Modular design allows flexible spatial arrangements.
03
Integrated blue-roof system facilitates rainwater management.
04
Radiant floor heating ensures energy-efficient climate control.
05
Natural materials minimize environmental impact and enhance aesthetics.

The design presents a contemporary interpretation of the primitive hut in Vale de Moses, functioning as an eco/yoga retreat. It aims to create a strong connection between human senses and the fundamental energies of nature. Inspired by local beehives known as "cortiços," the structure takes on a quadrangular form that fits naturally into the landscape while maintaining a minimalist design.

Functionality and Modularity
The design focuses on prefabrication, featuring a sturdy seismic structure that allows for easy assembly and disassembly. This modular setup makes it possible to adjust the layout, enabling units to be grouped or rearranged as needed. This flexibility accommodates changing requirements, ensuring that the space remains practical for its users.

Sustainable Design Strategies
Sustainability is a significant aspect, evident in the inclusion of a green roof that enhances insulation and supports biodiversity. Additionally, a Blue-roof System is integrated to capture and store rainwater, which aids in irrigation and fire safety. These strategies highlight the commitment to environmental responsibility and efficient use of resources.

Material Usage
Selected materials play an important role in the overall design. The exterior facade is made from Natural Expanded Cork Agglomerate, which provides thermal insulation and structural support. Inside, Natural Sweet Chestnut Wood (Castanea Sativa) is used for flooring, connecting the interior spaces with nature. Large areas of clear glass in the windows allow for natural light and open views of the surrounding environment.

Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is also a priority. A dry radiant floor system helps maintain comfortable temperatures throughout the year. Additionally, orientable photovoltaic and thermal solar hybrid panels are utilized to generate energy for lighting and water circulation. This approach emphasizes effective energy management, aligning with sustainable principles.

The design thoughtfully balances built spaces with nature, inviting interaction with the landscape through its functional and simple forms. Each element works together to create a serene environment, fostering a deeper connection between occupants and their natural surroundings.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy