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Embracing Nature with Hemp-Lime and Oak in a Funnel-Shaped Retreat

Authors:
Domenico Bongiorno, Edoardo Arcidiacono
Embracing Nature with Hemp-Lime and Oak in a Funnel-Shaped Retreat

Project in-detail

The funnel-shaped sleeping pods, crafted from hemp-lime and oak, open to the west to capture the evening sun, creating a harmonious retreat that immerses occupants in the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Funnel-shaped design maximizes solar exposure.
02
Large windows provide panoramic views of the landscape.
03
Hemp-lime construction enhances breathability and insulation.
04
Walls diverge outward for a unique spatial experience.
05
Oak framework supports the lightweight structure efficiently.

The "Surya Namaskar: Sleeping Pods on a Cliff" project is located in a stunning natural setting and serves as a peaceful retreat for relaxation and reflection. The design is inspired by Surya, the solar star, and focuses on themes of light and energy. The distinctive form of the pods reaches upward, aimed at harnessing sunlight and connecting with the surrounding landscape.

Design Concept
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The sleeping pods feature a funnel shape that opens to the west to capture the warmth and illumination of the setting sun. This strategic orientation enhances comfort and creates a welcoming atmosphere. Large windows act as visual frames, allowing occupants to enjoy expansive views of nature while fostering a sense of belonging within the environment.

Spatial Configuration
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The walls of the pods diverge outward, contributing to an open feel and inviting interaction with nature. This design enhances the experience inside while maintaining a sense of privacy. The organic forms reflect a relationship between the built environment and the landscape, blurring the boundaries and encouraging a lifestyle connected to nature.

Materiality
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Sustainability is a key aspect of the design, with materials chosen for their environmental benefits. Hemp-lime is used for its breathable and insulating properties, contributing to the energy efficiency of the pods. Limestone tiles provide durability and aesthetic appeal. Lime-hemp blocks improve thermal performance, while the oak wood structure offers support, creating a blend of natural materials that ground the design in its setting.

The unique features include photovoltaic panels, designed to collect renewable energy and reduce environmental impact. A screw foundation and breathable membranes ensure stability and comfort. These choices highlight a commitment to sustainability, making the sleeping pods a true reflection of their natural surroundings. The attention to detail enhances the overall experience, encouraging quiet moments of connection with the 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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