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Fire-Treated Timber and Straw Insulation in a Sustainable Retreat

Authors:
Ioann Dikov, Валентин Филипов, Anna Mayorova, Temirbulat Abesivanon
Fire-Treated Timber and Straw Insulation in a Sustainable Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with fire-treated timber and insulated with straw, the retreat harmonizes with its natural surroundings while providing a dedicated space for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using fire-treated timber for enhanced safety and durability.
02
Incorporates straw insulation for improved energy efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features large windows that provide expansive views and natural light.
04
Includes a dedicated meditation zone designed to foster mindfulness.
05
Seamlessly integrates with the surrounding landscape, promoting a sense of harmony.

The hidden shelter is a thoughtful design that blends into its environment while providing a space for reflection and self-discovery. Located in a calm and natural setting, the structure allows its occupants to experience a deep connection with the outdoors. The overall design promotes simplicity and encourages a sense of mindfulness through its layout and spatial arrangements.

Spatial Organization

The layout of the shelter is clear and functional, responding effectively to the needs of those who live there. The central oven stands as the main feature, offering warmth and comfort within the home. Surrounding this core are spaces for sleeping, cooking, and meditation, ensuring that every part of the shelter serves a specific purpose. This thoughtful arrangement fosters a sense of order and tranquility, making the environment welcoming.

Integration of Natural Elements

Large windows are a key aspect of the design, creating a strong link between the inside and outside. These windows frame the views of the surrounding landscape, allowing natural light to enter and brighten the living spaces. One window looks out over a small pond, inviting the sounds and sights of nature into daily life. Another window offers a clear view of the sky above, enhancing the feeling of being connected to the natural world.

Materiality and Aesthetics

A careful choice of materials plays a significant role in the shelter's overall character. The wooden frame provides necessary structural support while contributing warmth to the visual appearance. Fire-treated timber adds safety without compromising the aesthetic appeal. Inside, straw insulation improves energy efficiency, and a vapor barrier manages moisture effectively. The use of translucent structures with double glazing enhances thermal performance, while sanded plywood finishes create a pleasing texture in living spaces.

Meditation Zone

A dedicated meditation zone is another important element of the design. It features large windows that bring the landscape inside, allowing for a peaceful environment. This space encourages occupants to engage with nature and practice mindfulness. The inclusion of this area supports the shelter's aim of promoting a lifestyle that is in harmony with the natural world.

The relationship between the shelter and its surroundings is captured beautifully in the way light interacts with its surfaces. Throughout the day, light and shadow play across the design, giving it a dynamic quality. Every detail, from the positioning of the windows to the texture of the materials, is carefully considered, creating an environment that nurtures peace and introspection.

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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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