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Corten Steel and Local Stone Enveloped in Natural Light for a Spiritual Retreat

Author:
Juwon Ha
Corten Steel and Local Stone Enveloped in Natural Light for a Spiritual Retreat

Project in-detail

Crafted from Corten steel and local stone, the design integrates natural light and communal spaces to create a retreat that fosters spiritual connection and personal reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with locally sourced Corten steel to blend with the natural landscape.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural performance.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and views.
04
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for durability and fire resistance.
05
Design promotes spiritual reflection through carefully defined communal spaces.

### Overview
Located on Jeju Island, South Korea, the project aims to integrate the built environment with the region's distinctive volcanic topography and climate. This design focuses on fostering community and spirituality, prioritizing the connection between architecture and nature. Key to its intent is the blurring of boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a tranquil atmosphere conducive to well-being and interaction.

### Spatial Configuration and Functionality
The overall layout features interconnected structures serving diverse purposes, including accommodation options, shared facilities, and spaces designated for spiritual and recreational activities. With elements such as a chapel, counseling areas, and various communal spaces, the design facilitates efficient circulation while maintaining visual and physical connections to the landscape. Traditional courtyards are incorporated to encourage community engagement and offer views of the surroundings.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The project's material palette emphasizes local sourcing, reflecting Jeju Island's natural context. Key materials include local stone for structural integrity, Corten steel for its weathered appearance and tactile qualities, glass to enhance transparency and daylight access, and wood to evoke warmth. This thoughtful selection of materials not only addresses aesthetic considerations but also underscores a commitment to sustainability, reducing the environmental impact associated with transportation. The design also prioritizes natural light and ventilation through strategic building orientation, incorporating elements such as skylights and openings to optimize airflow and enhance the interior experience.

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

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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

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