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Curved Walls and Natural Wood Create a Rejuvenating Retreat for Mindfulness

Authors:
Antonio Perrone, Elisa Montani, Giulio Pizzorusso, Francesco Patetta
Curved Walls and Natural Wood Create a Rejuvenating Retreat for Mindfulness

Project in-detail

Constructed with a platform frame system and natural wood, the design integrates curved walls and a ventilated facade to create a serene environment dedicated to meditation and restful living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Focus on a platform frame system that enhances structural integrity and environmental performance.
02
Incorporates a ventilated facade with overlapping slats to improve natural ventilation.
03
Curved walls designed for both aesthetic appeal and maintenance-free durability.
04
Includes a grey water recycling system to promote resource efficiency.
05
Utilizes natural wood cladding specifically selected for resilience against extreme climates.

The design features a meditation space combined with a sleeping area, focused on creating a strong connection with the surrounding landscape. The concept reflects a growing awareness of the importance of mental well-being, achieved through careful attention to spatial arrangements and natural elements.

Integration of Functionality

The layout effectively defines different areas that encourage relaxation and mindfulness. There are distinct zones for sleeping, bathing, and meditation, which allow for smooth transitions between these activities. Large openings throughout the space bring in plenty of natural light, helping to establish visual links with the outside environment and highlighting nature’s role in daily life.

Materiality and Construction

The building utilizes a wooden frame system, adopting a platform frame approach that ensures continuity between its supporting and reinforcing structures. The natural wood cladding is selected for its durability against extreme weather conditions. A ventilated facade with overlapping slats and curved walls enhances both the look of the building and its functional performance, allowing for efficient air circulation while minimizing maintenance.

Sustainable Systems

Sustainability is a key aspect of the design, demonstrated by the inclusion of photovoltaic panels that satisfy all energy needs with renewable sources. The grey water recycling system promotes efficient use of resources, while a composting toilet operates without requiring water or electricity, further reducing environmental impact. These features show a commitment to responsible design and the desire to lessen the ecological footprint.

In combining thoughtful materials and innovative systems, the design creates a space that encourages peace and reflection. Each detail has a purpose, from the strategic placement of windows that invite light in, to the layout that connects indoors and outdoors. This approach helps to foster an environment where people can feel calm and engaged with nature.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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