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A Curved Timber Atrium Retreat with Eco-Friendly Wellness Spaces

Authors:
Renelle Handa, Jessica Wang, Jessica Jia
A Curved Timber Atrium Retreat with Eco-Friendly Wellness Spaces
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A multi-level retreat centered on wellness, Auricle Cove integrates timber, expansive glazing, and biophilic design. The structure supports sustainable living through a greenhouse, daylight-driven spaces, and local material use.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a laminated pine frame system.
02
Breathable envelope of vertical wooden slats.
03
Curved rooflines inspired by Art Nouveau geometry.
04
Central atrium enhances light and natural ventilation.
05
Greenhouse supports local food production initiatives.

Auricle Cove is a multi-story wellness and retreat center constructed with a laminated pine frame system and natural insulation. The building's envelope—composed of vertical wooden slats and expansive glazing—supports both breathability and visual connection to the surrounding landscape. Curved rooflines, influenced by Art Nouveau geometry and organic forms, add structural rhythm while reinforcing the project’s emphasis on flow and natural integration.

Program Sequence and Spatial Organization

The retreat is organized vertically across four levels, each serving distinct functions: the ground floor hosts the entry, dining area, kitchen, and bathroom; the second floor is dedicated to a yoga studio and communal living; private bedrooms and additional baths occupy the third floor; and the top floor contains a greenhouse and a multipurpose space for workshops. A central atrium and operable skylight bring daylight into the core and support natural ventilation, structuring the interior around light and air movement.

Environmental Systems and Material Strategy

Passive solar gain is maximized through full-height glass panels on each floor, while the greenhouse encourages local food production and plant-based nutrition. Timber and natural insulation materials contribute to energy efficiency and a tactile, low-impact interior environment. Views and circulation are carefully choreographed to support wellness, creating a retreat space shaped by its relationship to site, season, and sustainable practice.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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