Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Cultural Patterns and Local Materials in a Tranquil Retreat

Author:
Pawel Pacak
Cultural Patterns and Local Materials in a Tranquil Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating traditional Māori Kōwhaiwhai patterns and utilizing local materials, the design creates a serene hut that serves as a tranquil retreat for reflection and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates traditional Māori Kōwhaiwhai patterns in the ceiling design.
02
Features a cross-shaped floor plan for enhanced views and spatial flow.
03
Constructed with local and recyclable materials to ensure sustainability.
04
Designed with an open fireplace as a central gathering point.
05
Pathway integrates diverse vegetation, enhancing the sensory approach.

Mauri Tau is designed as a peaceful retreat for individuals looking to escape the busyness of modern life. Located near the Firth of Thames, the structure reflects a Māori concept that emphasizes relaxation and being present in the moment. The design creates a strong connection to nature, encouraging visitors to find clarity and tranquility.

Design Concept

At its core, Mauri Tau features a simple hut form, carefully adjusted to meet essential spatial needs. The design prioritizes warmth and safety, capturing a feeling of comfort. A cross-shaped floor plan stands out, providing expansive views from every angle inside while efficiently dividing the space into different functional areas.

Interior Elements

An open fireplace takes center stage in the interior, offering a focal point that enhances the intimate atmosphere. This feature contributes to a warm and inviting environment where daily activities can take place. The ceiling is adorned with traditional Māori Kōwhaiwhai patterns, adding cultural significance and fostering a serene ambiance well-suited for meditation and relaxation.

Material Use

Mauri Tau incorporates local, natural, and recyclable materials, underscoring a commitment to sustainability. Although the specific materials are not highlighted, their careful selection supports the environment and enhances the overall aesthetic. This consideration reflects an understanding of the importance of ecological responsibility in modern design.

Pathway and Landscaping

The pathway leading to Mauri Tau engages visitors with the surrounding landscape. It weaves through diverse vegetation, offering pleasant scents and enhancing the sensory experience. The design of the path encourages exploration and creates a transition between the structure and its environment, strengthening the bond with nature.

Inside, natural light filters through strategically placed openings, creating a dynamic relationship between the interior and exterior. Views of the landscape draw the eye, inviting nature into the space while maintaining a clear connection to the world outside.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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