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Cork Insulation and CLT Structures in a Tranquil Wellness Retreat

Author:
Bogna Koszczyc
Cork Insulation and CLT Structures in a Tranquil Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with cross-laminated timber and enhanced by cork insulation, the retreat integrates sustainable practices into a serene environment designed for wellness and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using cross-laminated timber, enhancing structural efficiency.
02
Incorporates cork insulation for thermal performance and environmental sustainability.
03
Features a grey water recycling system for efficient water management.
04
Designed with meditation zones to promote tranquility and relaxation.
05
Strategically blends with the natural landscape to minimize environmental impact.

Set in the scenic mountains of Portugal, the design features five individual structures within the Vale De Moses Yoga Retreat. The overall concept blends modern architectural elements with natural surroundings to create a village atmosphere that fosters well-being and peace. Each building is designed for specific activities like yoga, meditation, and relaxation, allowing for both community interaction and personal time.

SUSTAINABILITY FOCUS

A key element of the design is its focus on sustainability. The retreat uses innovative features such as a grey water system and solar glass on the rooftops to achieve self-sufficiency. Rainwater is collected and filtered for use as drinking water and tap water. This approach reduces dependency on outside sources and promotes responsible resource management.

MATERIAL SELECTION

The choice of materials is vital in supporting the project's sustainable goals. Laminated timber and cross-laminated timber (CLT) are prominently used. These materials are renewable and help lower the overall carbon footprint of the buildings. Photovoltaic glass is also integrated into the design, contributing to energy efficiency while fitting visually with the beautiful landscape.

COMFORT AND WELLNESS

Creating a healthy living environment is an essential focus. The design considers both air quality and visual comfort. Cork insulation is employed to maintain thermal comfort and ensures a pleasant atmosphere within the structures. The use of compost toilets and grey water tanks for irrigation highlights the commitment to an ecological lifestyle, encouraging sustainable practices among the inhabitants.

Natural light fills the interiors, enhancing the connection between the spaces and the landscape. Expansive views invite residents to appreciate the surrounding beauty, while carefully arranged outdoor spaces provide areas for reflection and relaxation.

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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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