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Elevated Refuge Crafted From Woven Bamboo and Sustainable Timber For Natural Living

Author:
Dwi Hatmaja
Elevated Refuge Crafted From Woven Bamboo and Sustainable Timber For Natural Living

Project in-detail

Crafted from sustainable timber and intricately woven bamboo, this elevated retreat embraces the Cambodian landscape, offering a serene space for contemplation and community living.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure incorporates woven bamboo panels that reflect traditional Cambodian craftsmanship.
02
An elevated design promotes natural ventilation and flood resilience in the rural landscape.
03
Sustainable timber is used not just for aesthetics but also for thermal regulation.
04
The layout integrates communal outdoor spaces for family gatherings and activities.
05
Large windows provide panoramic views while enhancing light and connection to nature.
The Timber Nest project represents a thoughtful blend of traditional Cambodian architecture with contemporary design elements, focusing on sustainability and community engagement. This architectural endeavor serves as a tranquil retreat that emphasizes harmony with nature, offering a unique living experience intertwined with its geographical context.

At its core, the Timber Nest is designed to be an intimate refuge, elevated above the ground to provide unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape. This elevation not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also promotes better drainage and minimizes environmental impact. The structure embodies the essence of its environment, integrating seamlessly into the lush greenery typical of rural Cambodia, making it a serene escape from urban life.

The function of the Timber Nest is multifaceted, accommodating both communal and private spaces. The upper floor is dedicated to contemplation, featuring ample windows that flood the area with natural light and provide expansive views of the sky. This design choice encourages moments of introspection, allowing inhabitants to connect with their surroundings and experience a deeper appreciation of nature. Conversely, the lower floor houses functional living spaces, including bedrooms, bathrooms, and an open verandah—areas that foster family interactions and daily routines. The ground level is designed as a communal space that encourages outdoor activities and gatherings, effectively linking the indoor and outdoor environments.

Key elements of the Timber Nest’s design include its use of sustainable materials and traditional construction techniques. The main structure comprises timber frames, which impart warmth and authenticity to the design. Complementing this are woven bamboo panels that serve as walls, reflecting local craftsmanship and a commitment to employing renewable resources. Concrete footings provide a strong foundation, while the inclusion of glass panels enhances the connectivity between the indoor living spaces and the outdoors.

A distinctive aspect of this project is its thoughtful approach to architectural form and function. By incorporating traditional Cambodian building methods with modern materials and technology, the Timber Nest achieves a design that not only honors cultural heritage but also optimizes functionality for contemporary living. The rooftop, designed with thatched elements, serves not only as a recognizable architectural feature but also as natural insulation, reducing energy consumption.

The project emphasizes sustainability throughout its design approach, opting for prefabricated components that speed up construction and minimize on-site waste. This strategy aligns with a broader movement within architecture to reduce environmental footprints while delivering high-quality living spaces. The melding of architectural ideas with practical execution reflects a conscious effort to create environments that are not only beautiful but also responsible.

Overall, the Timber Nest stands out as an exemplary project that encapsulates the fusion of tradition and modernity within architecture. Its careful consideration of materials, spatial organization, and engagement with the natural landscape demonstrates a commitment to creating spaces that enrich the human experience. To gain a deeper understanding of this innovative architectural design, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and other architectural details, interested readers are encouraged to explore the project's complete presentation. This exploration will provide further insights into the unique ideas and design methods that underpin the Timber Nest.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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