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Cubic Retreat Crafted From Wood With Geo Screw Foundations

Author:
Dmytro Aranchii
Cubic Retreat Crafted From Wood With Geo Screw Foundations

Project in-detail

Constructed with a cubic wooden structure and supported by geo screws, the retreat emphasizes adaptability and sustainability, providing a tranquil space for meditation and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cubic design that enhances spatial efficiency and functionality.
02
Constructed with wood, meeting cradle-to-cradle certification standards.
03
Geo screws minimize soil disturbance during installation.
04
Meditation area easily converts into a bedroom.
05
Encourages use of natural reservoirs for bathing.

Unit E is an architectural design located in the natural landscapes of Latvia, serving as a retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The primary goal is to help individuals reconnect with nature while providing adaptable living spaces that promote relaxation and contemplation. The design focuses on simplicity and practicality, creating a peaceful environment where users can restore their inner energy and find balance.

Design Concept

The cubic shape of Unit E clearly reflects its connection to the environment. The minimalistic exterior allows it to merge quietly with the landscape, enhancing its presence without overpowering the surroundings. This straightforward design also allows for easy transport and quick setup in various locations, whether in a forest or on a city rooftop.



Flexibility of Space

Unit E emphasizes flexible use of space. The meditation area is designed to convert into a bedroom, and this transition can happen rapidly, catering to different user needs. Such adaptability enriches the experience and aligns with a contemporary lifestyle that values practical and comfortable living spaces.



Sustainable Amenities

The project includes various practical amenities to support a low-impact lifestyle. Lockers provide personal storage, an oven allows for meal preparation, and a composting toilet manages waste sustainably. These features help maintain a smaller environmental footprint. Encouraging bathing in nearby natural water sources further strengthens the connection to the surrounding environment, promoting direct engagement with nature.



Materiality

Unit E is built using materials that meet strict sustainability standards. The primary structural element is wood, complemented by wood fiber loose-fill insulation for the walls, roof, and floor. Geo screws serve as the main bracing component, ensuring minimal impact on the soil while allowing for diverse placement options.

Large openings let in natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This design choice enhances the overall experience, making it a place that feels connected to its surroundings.

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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

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