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Elevated Bamboo Retreat Emphasizing Nature Integration

Author:
Marwan Hamama
Elevated Bamboo Retreat Emphasizing Nature Integration

Project in-detail

Elevated above the landscape, the bamboo retreat utilizes bio-sourced materials to create a harmonious connection with nature, serving as a versatile space for living and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design inspired by treehouses for enhanced nature interaction.
02
Utilizes bamboo fiber as a primary building material for sustainability.
03
Multi-functional space adaptable for living and meditation use.
04
Clear distinction between service and retreat areas for privacy.
05
Integrates local architectural forms, reflecting cultural heritage.

The design is located in Cambodia, addressing local ecological challenges while incorporating traditional forms with modern functionality. The concept focuses on the relationship between buildings and their natural surroundings. It creates a retreat that emphasizes both privacy and a connection to nature. The project includes three distinct spaces: a service area, a multi-purpose zone, and an elevated bedroom, each contributing to a unified experience that honors the local context.

Architectural Composition

The layout provides a service area that serves as a transition space, effectively separating daily functional elements from the calm of the retreat. This area enhances the feeling of privacy and enclosure, allowing users to experience a retreat from the outside world. The arrangement facilitates easy movement while clearly distinguishing between work and relaxation zones.

Multi-Purpose Environment

The multi-purpose space acts as both a living area and a meditation room. Its design lets in plenty of natural light while offering views of the surrounding landscape. This openness strengthens the bond between the interior and the exterior, encouraging occupants to engage with nature. The flexibility of this space allows it to meet various needs throughout the day, becoming an essential part of the overall experience.

Elevated Bedroom

The bedroom is positioned high above the ground, creating a sense of seclusion similar to that of a treehouse. This placement not only ensures privacy but also provides expansive views of the lush surroundings. The design allows occupants to feel connected to their environment while offering a peaceful place for rest and reflection.

Materiality and Sustainability

A focus on bio-sourced materials highlights a commitment to sustainability. The use of a prefabricated structure made from bamboo fiber reflects a thoughtful selection of local resources. This choice minimizes the ecological impact while honoring the region's traditional craftsmanship. The overall approach supports the goal of blending with the environment and local culture.

The rooflines rise gently toward the sky, inspired by the forms found in Angkor temples. They serve both an aesthetic purpose and a practical response to heavy rainfall, maintaining the connection to the architectural heritage of Cambodia while ensuring the shelter’s functionality.

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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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