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Floating Platform Retreat With Recycled Membrane and Steel Structure

Authors:
Qin Arguin-laverdiere, Hai-ya Wang, Cheng-yu Wang
Floating Platform Retreat With Recycled Membrane and Steel Structure

Project in-detail

A floating platform integrates a steel framework and recycled membrane to create a sustainable retreat in Kep, Cambodia, providing a tranquil space for meditation and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Floating platform design allows seamless outdoor integration.
02
Netting structure provides insect protection while maintaining views.
03
Local plants strategically chosen for natural mosquito repellent properties.
04
Steel framework facilitates quick assembly with local labor.
05
Translucent membranes enhance natural lighting and reduce heat gain.

Cambodia Remote Hideout Huts, particularly The Primitive Hut, is located in the rural area of Kep, Cambodia. The design aims to create a space that emphasizes connection with the environment while providing comfort and shelter. With its simple rectangular form, reminiscent of a greenhouse, the structure merges functionality with an appreciation for the natural surroundings.

Design Philosophy

The design focuses on transparency and the experience of nature. A netting structure acts as a barrier against insects while allowing clear views of the countryside. This feature encourages occupants to engage with their surroundings, enhancing the sense of openness within the hut. The layout promotes tranquility, reflecting the peaceful qualities of the rural landscape.

Climate Adaptability

Adapting to Cambodia’s diverse climate is central to the design. The hut effectively addresses the dry season, during which temperatures can soar to 35°C. It remains comfortable in cooler months, with average temperatures around 24°C. A floating platform extends the living space outdoors, offering a place for meditation and interaction with nature, while careful spatial arrangement helps manage thermal comfort.

Sustainable Practices

Sustainability is a key component of the design. The use of local plant species contributes to natural pest control. Plants such as Lavender, Mexican Marigold, Basil, and Rosemary have been selected for their ability to repel mosquitoes. This choice connects the hut more deeply to its surroundings and promotes well-being by incorporating elements of nature into daily life.

Construction and Materials

The structure primarily uses steel, chosen for its lightweight yet durable qualities. Simple hinge joints connect beams to columns, making assembly straightforward. This method allows local labor to participate in the construction, fostering community involvement. Interior features like movable shading systems and a solar water heating solution support sustainable living and reduce reliance on traditional energy sources.

Translucent membranes in the design allow natural light to filter through, creating inviting spaces inside. Movable elements further control heat gain, enhancing the comfort of the occupants.

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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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