Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Elevated Meditation Space with Natural Wood and Rainwater Collection

Authors:
Caroline Jousset, Marie Le roy, Jan Feichtinger
Elevated Meditation Space with Natural Wood and Rainwater Collection

Project in-detail

Raised on a piling system, this retreat incorporates a central core for natural ventilation and features rainwater collection while providing a dedicated space for meditation in a tranquil setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated on a piling system for improved airflow.
02
Central core design enhances natural ventilation.
03
Pivoting sunbreak panels allow for adjustable sunlight.
04
Integrated rainwater collection system for sustainability.
05
Meditation space surrounded by a landscaped basin.

The Flying HUT is located in the countryside of Kep, Cambodia, surrounded by greenery and mountains. The design serves as a retreat focused on relaxation and mindfulness. The concept blends traditional elements of Cambodian architecture with modern sustainable practices. This approach aims to create a space that allows visitors to connect with nature while enjoying comfort and tranquility.

Design Concept

The design reinterprets traditional Cambodian architecture by elevating the structure on piles. This raises the first floor and creates usable space below. A central core supported by cables allows the HUT to be suspended, which optimizes airflow and provides panoramic views. The approach removes barriers between the inside and outside, creating a light-filled environment.

Modularity and Adaptability

Modularity plays a key role in the design of the Flying HUT. The layout can change based on the occupants’ needs. Pivoting panels allow sunlight to be controlled, enhancing energy efficiency and providing comfort. This feature adds flexibility to the living spaces and encourages a dynamic relationship between the interior and the changing light throughout the day.

Structural Materials

The materials used include concrete for the foundations, metal for the load-bearing structure, and wood for the floors, walls, and facades. This selection aligns with local building traditions, ensuring a connection to the environment. The lightweight construction not only supports easy assembly but also minimizes environmental impact.

Design Integration

The roof slopes downwards, creating a unique profile that collects rainwater for use. This funnel shape connects the structure visually to the sky and provides practical benefits. Underneath, an open meditation space surrounded by water and plants reinforces the connection to nature. Features such as mosquito-proofing and natural repellents contribute to comfort, creating an inviting atmosphere for quiet reflection.

Rainwater collected flows into a landscaped basin, cooling the air and encouraging a peaceful environment. This thoughtful integration of elements achieves a harmonious relationship between the built space and the surrounding landscape.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy