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Floating Pine Retreat With Rainwater Harvesting

Authors:
Karolis Skirtunas, Saulė Andriulytė, Evita Šupienytė, Deimilė Mikelionytė
Floating Pine Retreat With Rainwater Harvesting

Project in-detail

A tall window frames panoramic views in a round, floating structure made of pine that integrates a rainwater harvesting system, creating a tranquil retreat focused on immersive nature experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
A tall window provides unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape.
02
The structure appears to float above the ground.
03
A rainwater harvesting system is integrated into the design.
04
The use of capital pine wood emphasizes environmental compatibility.
05
The interior layout centers around the main window for maximum natural light.

"Pendant in Time" is located in the peaceful area of Vale De Moses. It serves as a retreat, focused on helping occupants connect deeply with nature. The design concept aims to frame moments of beauty, especially sunrises and sunsets, allowing residents to experience the changing scenery through thoughtfully placed openings.

Spatial Organization

The layout is simple yet functional, prioritizing areas for sleeping, storage, and hygiene. At the center is a two-sided bed that faces a tall window. This arrangement invites plenty of natural light while offering wide views of the surrounding landscape. It brings nature into the living space, making it a part of everyday life.

Structural Considerations

The form of the structure is round, which adds to its visual interest and stability. It supports a sleeping pod that seems to float above the ground, increasing the feeling of being part of the landscape. The design includes three pressure points, ensuring the building remains stable while preserving the natural shape of the hillside. A walkway merges gently with the terrain, enhancing the connection between the structure and its environment.

Sustainability and Materiality

Sustainable practices play an important role in the design. A rain-collecting system is integrated into the facade. This system captures rainwater and directs it to a tank at the base of the building. The materials used include capital pine wood, which is chosen for its durability and compatibility with the natural surroundings.

Orientation and Facade Design

Vertical design elements feature adjustable slatted facades, allowing control over light and privacy. The tallest point inside reaches four meters, creating an open and airy feel that echoes the nearby mountains. This thoughtful approach encourages a close relationship with the landscape while contributing to the overall functionality of the living space.

The tall window stands out as a crucial feature, framing the scenic views outside. It draws in natural light and allows occupants to experience the beauty of nature in a direct way.

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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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