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Elevated Huts of Wood Integrated with Nature for Tranquil Retreat

Authors:
Sara lilla Pinter, Lehel Heim, Szilard Suba-faluvegi
Elevated Huts of Wood Integrated with Nature for Tranquil Retreat

Project in-detail

Elevated above the forest floor, these wood huts utilize a compact form and dual-level layout to create a tranquil retreat that encourages deep connection with nature through meditation and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design minimizes ecological disruption in the rainforest.
02
Compact form integrates multiple functions for efficient use of space.
03
Dual-level layout separates daily activities from meditative space.
04
Translucent panels allow natural light while maintaining privacy.
05
Local materials reflect traditional Cambodian building practices.

The Cambodia Remote Huts project is located in the Cambodian rainforest, designed as a retreat that promotes a connection between visitors and nature. The project emphasizes simplicity and minimalism, focusing on essential functions that allow for a tranquil experience. By creating these huts, the goal is to offer a space where people can relax, meditate, and engage with the natural surroundings.

Design Concept

The layout of the huts features a two-level organization that separates everyday activities from spaces meant for contemplation. This division supports various uses, such as yoga and quiet reflection, allowing individuals to immerse themselves in the peaceful environment. The idea of "empty space" is central to the design, encouraging clarity of thought and a sense of calm.

Structural Integrity

The design approach combines multiple functions into a compact form, making efficient use of space. Each hut operates like a Swiss army knife, incorporating concealed toilets, showers, and kitchens to maintain a tidy appearance. This thoughtful arrangement keeps the focus on the surrounding nature, providing a clean and relaxed atmosphere for users.

Material Considerations

Wood is the main material used for construction, aligning with local building traditions and enhancing the connection to the setting. The huts are elevated on a framework that adapts to different terrains, helping to address environmental factors like groundwater and wind. This design choice not only supports the structure but also reduces the impact on the forest ecosystem.

User Experience

The design outcome involves flexibility and adaptability, allowing visitors to personalize their stay according to their preferences and the environment. An inner core offers protection during the night, while translucent shading panels bring light into the huts during the day. This combination creates an open feel that enhances interaction with the outdoors and deepens the experience of being in nature. The overall result is a retreat that encourages serenity and reflection amidst the beauty of the Cambodian landscape.

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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

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