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Cross-Laminated Timber Retreat Embracing Seasonal Flexibility and Natural Spaces

Authors:
Charles Chevallier, Marie Billa
Cross-Laminated Timber Retreat Embracing Seasonal Flexibility and Natural Spaces

Project in-detail

Characterized by cross-laminated timber construction and flexible modular layouts, the retreat seamlessly integrates natural elements and communal spaces to foster a connection with the landscape while accommodating diverse guest experiences throughout the year.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
02
Integrates charred wooden shingles for weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a flexible modular layout allowing reconfiguration for various guest needs.
04
Incorporates extensive glazing to enhance natural light and landscape connection.
05
Design promotes seasonally adjusted communal spaces for winter and summer activities.

## Overview

Located in a scenic landscape, the Skylight Circle project integrates natural elements with communal spaces aimed at fostering connection and engagement among users. The design reflects a conceptual framework that accommodates both intimate gatherings during long winter evenings and expanded interaction in summer, transitioning effectively between varied seasonal activities. The central circular layout serves as a gathering space, emphasizing the relationship between the built environment and its natural surroundings.

## Spatial Configuration and Connectivity

The architectural strategy revolves around a central circular structure that orchestrates the surrounding guest houses, recreational facilities, and communal areas such as a spa, barn, and amphitheater. This layout not only supports social interaction but also offers opportunities for solitude. The master plan showcases a deliberate organization that enhances the integration of walking paths, particularly those leading to nearby water features, thereby connecting users to the broader landscape. This fluid relationship between built forms and nature cultivates a sense of unity and invites exploration.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

Materiality plays a critical role in underscoring the project's commitment to sustainability and local context. The selection of cross-laminated timber panels contributes to an organic aesthetic while promoting environmental stewardship. Additional materials include 50 mm thermal insulation for energy efficiency, a 25 mm exterior finish to enhance durability and visual appeal, and fiber-reinforced concrete slabs that ensure structural integrity. These choices reflect an intention to harmonize with natural elements and emphasize responsible building practices. The design promotes not only ecological sustainability but also an atmosphere that enhances user experience through thoughtful material integration.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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