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Embracing Nature Through Thoughtful Spatial Organization in a Remote Hideout

Authors:
Kimrath Sao, Piseth Sophy, Arounraksmey Sao, Kimhak Heang
Embracing Nature Through Thoughtful Spatial Organization in a Remote Hideout

Project in-detail

Situated in Cambodia, the design employs a thoughtful spatial organization that enhances natural light and promotes community interaction, serving as a functional hideout immersed in its lush environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Natural ventilation is maximized through strategically placed openings in the bent A-frame design.
02
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances durability while offering a visually striking finish.
03
Interior spaces are designed to facilitate both private reflection and community interaction.
04
Sustainability is prioritized with materials sourced locally to reduce environmental impact.
05
The layout fosters a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living areas.

The Ferret is located in Cambodia, designed as a remote hideout that encourages a connection with the natural landscape. The overall design concept blends the structure with its surroundings while prioritizing function. It creates inviting spaces that allow for a mix of social interaction and personal retreat, all within a well-considered layout.

Structural System

The building's structural system is designed to respond to the local climate. The roof plan suggests solutions that improve both function and aesthetics. With careful consideration for ventilation and natural light, the design aims to provide comfort and minimize energy use while blending effortlessly into the environment.

Layout and Space Planning

The floor plan reflects a thoughtful arrangement that promotes ease of movement. Spaces are designed with clear purposes, ensuring that both group gatherings and private moments can coexist. This intentional organization helps facilitate a natural flow, allowing occupants to transition smoothly from one area to another without confusion.

Elevations and Visualizations

The details in the elevation drawings highlight key characteristics of The Ferret. Each elevation—front, side, and back—offers a view that plays with light and shadow, creating a rich visual texture. Visualizations help express the desired atmosphere, illustrating how the spaces interact with the landscape and provide a sense of belonging.

The integration of outdoor spaces enhances the experience within The Ferret. Large openings and well-placed windows allow occupants to enjoy views of the lush surroundings while bringing nature indoors. This thoughtful design element reinforces the connection to the environment and creates a tranquil atmosphere for those who inhabit the space.

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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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