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Cork Oak Retreat Featuring Biophilic Design and Sustainable Features

Authors:
Simona Caruso, Manuela Capurso, Valentina Matarrese
Cork Oak Retreat Featuring Biophilic Design and Sustainable Features
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Constructed primarily from cork oak and laminated pine, the meditation booth emphasizes biophilic design through integrated plant reliefs while promoting sustainability with rainwater collection and solar power, serving as a tranquil retreat for introspection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using local cork oak to reflect regional heritage.
02
Features integrated plant reliefs mimicking natural tree structures.
03
Utilizes a rainwater collection system for sustainable water management.
04
Incorporates photovoltaic panels for self-sufficient energy use.
05
Designed for easy assembly and disassembly, allowing site adaptability.

The Hulling Cabin is a meditation booth located in Portugal, a country known for its long-standing tradition of cork production. The design aims to blend with the surrounding landscape while honoring the cultural significance of cork cultivation. Inspired by the decortication process of the cork oak, it symbolizes a journey of self-discovery and reflection.

External Expression

The outer structure represents the different stages of cork processing. One side showcases the visible bark of the cork tree, providing a direct connection to nature. This feature invites interaction, allowing people to feel the texture and origins of the materials used. The design emphasizes continuity between the building and its environment, reflecting the deep relationship between humans and nature.



Internal Sanctuary

Inside, the cabin serves as a peaceful space for meditation and quiet reflection. The layout is designed to enhance the user experience, promoting relaxation and mindfulness. Soft lighting creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that encourages introspective practice. The careful arrangement of space fosters a retreat-like feeling, making it a suitable environment for those seeking tranquility.



Sustainable Features

The design includes practical and sustainable elements. The construction system allows for easy assembly and disassembly, making it adaptable to different sites. The primary structure is made from laminated pine wood, which is both strong and lightweight. It also features a rainwater collection system and solar panels, emphasizing a commitment to environmental responsibility and self-sufficiency.



Biophilic Integration

A notable aspect of the cabin is its biophilic approach. The exterior walls incorporate plant reliefs, mimicking the appearance of tree trunks. This feature strengthens the link between the building and its natural surroundings, promoting biodiversity. The presence of greenery emphasizes the idea of the cabin as a sanctuary, enhancing its connection to nature.

Light filters gently through the glass walls, creating a calm atmosphere that complements the natural materials. This soft glow highlights the design, bringing a sense of peace and harmony to those within.

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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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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

Open architecture competitions

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    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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