Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Creative retreat featuring cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles harmonizing with coastal landscapes

Author:
Yu Chen
Creative retreat featuring cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles harmonizing with coastal landscapes

Project in-detail

Nestled between the sea and the woods, this creative retreat utilizes cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles to create a harmonious sanctuary for artists, blending modern design with the natural coastal landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The project incorporates terraced balconies for each poet hut, offering private outdoor spaces that enhance individual reflection in a natural setting.
02
Charred wooden shingles are used not only for aesthetics but also for their natural resistance to weathering and pests, extending the building's lifespan.
03
A unique spiral staircase connects multiple levels while allowing natural light to penetrate deep into the building, creating an inviting atmosphere.
04
The design aligns with prevailing coastal winds to maximize natural ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems.
05
The exhibition space is specifically designed with flexible wall systems to accommodate various artistic displays, fostering a dynamic environment for creativity.
The architectural project at hand is a thoughtfully designed retreat named "Between Wind and Sea," specifically intended for poets and artists seeking a serene environment conducive to creativity and reflection. Situated in a harmonious setting between the relentless movement of the ocean and the calming presence of the woods, this project embodies a seamless integration of architecture with its natural surroundings. The design aims to foster a connection between individuals and the environment, providing spaces that support both communal interaction and personal solitude, which are essential for artistic expression.

This architectural endeavor represents more than just a physical space; it serves as a nurturing ground for creativity, enabling its residents to engage deeply with their craft. Every aspect of the project has been formulated to reflect its purpose—not merely as a place to live, but as an enriching environment that promotes collaboration and inspiration among its users. The project encompasses various functional areas, ensuring it meets the diverse needs of its community of artists.

Central to the design are three key components: the exhibition room, the poet huts, and a host house. These buildings are characterized by their elongated, organic shapes, drawing influence from the forms found within the landscape. The spatial arrangement of the project fosters connectivity while allowing for individual privacy. Each poet hut features personal terraces, providing a secluded space for contemplation and creativity, while the communal facilities encourage social engagement.

Materiality plays an essential role in the project's success, as it employs a combination of wood, glass, and concrete. Wood is utilized not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its thermal properties, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Glass façades are strategically incorporated to enhance transparency and maximize natural light, forging a continuous dialogue between interior spaces and the breathtaking outdoors. Concrete elements provide structural stability, ensuring longevity and durability while maintaining a balance with the softer, more organic materials.

Another notable aspect of the design is its attention to vertical circulation, facilitated by spiral staircases that connect levels seamlessly. This design choice not only allows for efficient movement but also contributes to the overall aesthetic cohesion of the buildings, enhancing the visitor experience. Common areas, such as the dining hall and the music room, are designed to encourage dialogue among residents, reinforcing the fundamental goal of communal living while maintaining individual spaces for artistic work.

A unique approach observed in the project is its dedication to the inclusion of void spaces that permit air and light to permeate deep within the structures. This design strategy creates an uplifting atmosphere that is vital for fostering creativity. By carefully considering the environmental context, the project successfully harmonizes architectural elements with natural features, thus enhancing the overall experience for its users.

Exploring this architectural project will reveal critical insights into its various components. The architectural plans offer a glimpse into the detailed spatial organization, while architectural sections provide an understanding of how the different levels interact with one another. Furthermore, an examination of the architectural designs can shed light on the intentions behind specific material choices and forms utilized throughout the project. The thoughtful architectural ideas underpinning "Between Wind and Sea" reflect a profound understanding of the relationship between space and creativity, making it a noteworthy exploration for those interested in contemporary architectural practices.

For more detailed insights and a deeper understanding of this project, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation, where they can uncover the intricacies of the design and its implementation. Engaging with the architectural plans, sections, and designs will enrich your perspective on the innovative ideas that make this retreat a significant architectural undertaking.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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 16544 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