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Curved Copper Roof and Charred Wood Create a Sustainable Retreat in the Forest

Authors:
ROBERTO DE MARCHI, ANNA PEZZETTA
Curved Copper Roof and Charred Wood Create a Sustainable Retreat in the Forest

Project in-detail

A curved copper roof and charred wood finishes define a sustainable retreat that seamlessly integrates with its forest surroundings, promoting wellness through thoughtfully designed communal and private spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved roof design enhances natural rainwater management.
02
Charred wood shingles provide fire resistance and durability.
03
A circular layout promotes both privacy and community interaction.
04
Local materials contribute to the building's low ecological footprint.
05
Integrated fruit garden encourages user engagement with nature.

### Overview

Located within a dense forest, the project is a single-storey building designed to engage with its natural surroundings while providing a tranquil retreat. The concept draws on the metaphor of a bird’s nest, prioritizing both security and openness, thereby fostering a close connection with the landscape. The orientation and layout of the structure invite users to absorb the rich biodiversity present, facilitating moments of mindfulness and introspection.

### Spatial Configuration

The layout employs a circular formation to promote fluid movement and a sense of community within the space. The central structure houses dedicated areas for therapy, relaxation, and communal activities, all aimed at enhancing well-being. Complementary outdoor pavilions offer intimate settings for meditation, while strategically placed pathways link various functions, including a sauna and tea room, contributing to a cohesive experience. A pond serves as a natural focal point, encouraging interaction with the landscape.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The materials chosen for construction emphasize sustainability and local craftsmanship. Copper roofing is utilized for its durability and aesthetic appeal, developing a patina that reflects natural weathering. Local wood beams contribute warmth and authenticity, while straw roofing in the tea room provides effective insulation. Natural clay plaster ensures good air quality, and burnt wood finishes in the sauna enhance tactile experiences. Additional features, such as radiant floor heating and energy-efficient windows, underline the commitment to sustainability and user comfort, incorporating practices that support local ecosystems and communities.

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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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