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Curved Windows and Plywood Layers Create a Mindful Retreat

Authors:
Roman Sokolowsky, Clément Denans
Curved Windows and Plywood Layers Create a Mindful Retreat

Project in-detail

Curved windows seamlessly integrate the calming presence of nature into the wood cabin's design, while 9mm plywood and ample insulation enhance thermal comfort, making it an ideal retreat for meditation and self-reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved windows enhance natural light and views, fostering a connection with the outdoors.
02
Constructed primarily from 9mm exterior plywood, supporting both structure and insulation.
03
The cabin's design allows for seasonal adaptability, maintaining comfort year-round.
04
Interior spaces are intentionally designed to facilitate mindfulness and contemplation.
05
CNC-cutting techniques ensure precise execution of the organic shape.

The Nutshell is designed as an organically shaped wood cabin that focuses on building a connection with nature. Located in a peaceful setting, the structure provides space for meditation and self-reflection. The aim is to create an environment that encourages users to remain present, free from the distractions of daily life.

Materiality

Material choice is an important factor in the design of The Nutshell. The cabin features 9mm exterior plywood and 21mm plywood used as a wind barrier, offering a sturdy and insulated exterior. The design also incorporates 200mm insulation for enhanced thermal performance. The combination of oriented strand board and a wooden floor adds to the stability of the cabin while maintaining an inviting atmosphere.

Spatial Configuration

An important feature of the cabin is its layout, including large curved windows that connect the interior with the outside landscape. These windows are positioned to maximize the intake of natural light, creating airy and bright spaces for contemplation. The flow of the design ensures that users can enjoy the outside tranquility while being comfortably sheltered inside.

Thermal Adaptability

The Nutshell is designed to adjust to various climate conditions, making it suitable for use throughout the year. A curved skylight at the top of the cabin allows additional light and ventilation, helping to regulate temperature. This thoughtful design element promotes comfort in the cabin, making it a welcoming retreat regardless of the weather outside.

The detailing of The Nutshell is defined by its fluid forms and clean lines. Each design choice is made to create a harmonious blend of function and simplicity. The overall atmosphere encourages deeper thinking and mindfulness, inviting users to enjoy their surroundings in a focused way.

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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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