Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

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
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
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
-
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
-
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
-
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.

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

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
new
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
new
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 15 July 2026
new
The Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 July 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026
new
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 29 July 2026
new
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 30 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026
MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Media, partners and clients

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