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Cork Insulation and Water Management in a Tranquil Retreat

Authors:
Francisco Ornelas, Ana Ruivo, João Jesus
Cork Insulation and Water Management in a Tranquil Retreat
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Incorporating cork insulation and a strategic water management system, this tranquil retreat seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings to create a sustainable environment for relaxation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cork insulation enhances thermal efficiency while reducing environmental impact.
02
Strategic water management systems incorporate passive collection methods.
03
Pine beams and plywood construction create a warm, inviting aesthetic.
04
Weight distribution is optimized through the use of metal brackets.
05
Design prioritizes natural light and airflow for occupant comfort.

"The Path of the Soul" is a project that reflects a strong connection to the natural environment. Designed to enhance the surrounding landscape, the building serves as a quiet retreat for its users. The overall concept focuses on minimizing the impact of the structure on its site. By allowing elements like sunlight and wind to shape the experience within the space, the design creates a balance between the built environment and nature.

Structural Components

The project includes important structural elements that support its functionality and sustainability. A main water supply connection and a drop tube for water storage show a focus on efficient resource management. This careful planning helps to ensure water usage is effective, reinforcing the project's aim of harmonizing with the surrounding environment.



Material Selection

Material choice is crucial in meeting the design goals. Metal brackets offer necessary support while wooden plywood boards paired with cork provide insulation and stability. Metal gutters made from darker wood aid in managing water runoff, allowing the building to coexist with its landscape without disrupting its beauty.



Aesthetic and Environmental Integration

The visual quality of the building is enhanced by the careful selection of materials. Pine wood beams and wooden slats create a design language that fits well with the surroundings. The inclusion of plywood with insulation for domed areas shows an understanding of thermal performance. Additionally, pre-manufactured light concrete combined with cork improves both strength and energy efficiency.



Details and Functional Elements

Attention to detail is evident throughout the design. Water storage tanks and structural posts not only serve functional needs but also help to unify the overall appearance of the building. Base plywood panels elevate the structure while keeping a connection to the natural setting, resulting in a design that embodies thoughtful integration with its environment.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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