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Foldable Hempcrete Cabin Blending Verticality with Natural Surroundings

Authors:
Begum Aydinoglu, Ecem Ezmeci, Meyssam Seddigh
Foldable Hempcrete Cabin Blending Verticality with Natural Surroundings

Project in-detail

Incorporating foldable walls and thick hempcrete, the design leverages verticality and natural forms to create a sustainable dwelling that harmonizes with its forested surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates foldable walls that connect indoor space with the outdoors.
02
Utilizes thick hempcrete for enhanced insulation and sustainability.
03
Designed with vertical columns that can integrate with existing trees.
04
Focuses on meditative living, promoting tranquility through design.
05
Features triangular wooden panels for structural stability and weather resistance.

Mind Nest is a unique design situated in Latvia, located within an area known for its stunning forests and lakes. The building's concept takes inspiration from natural forms, particularly the nests created by various birds. This approach not only defines its appearance but also enhances its relationship with the surrounding nature. The structure serves as a dwelling while fostering a strong connection to the environment.

Conceptual Framework

The idea behind Mind Nest originates from analyzing the characteristics of bird nests. The design integrates a rigid wooden framework, reflecting the strength seen in wasp nests and incorporating the layered, woven forms of weaverbird nests. This combination results in a building that offers both stability and a sense of belonging in nature.

Spatial Dynamics

The layout emphasizes verticality, utilizing columns as key structural elements. These can be set against the ground or utilize existing trees for support, reducing material use and promoting environmental engagement. The design invites vertical growth, allowing various spatial configurations that move away from traditional layouts. Foldable walls create a strong connection between indoor spaces and the outdoors, providing occupants with changing views and lighting throughout the day.

Sustainability and Materiality

Sustainability is integral to Mind Nest. The structure is designed to operate independently for energy and water. It collects rainwater and harnesses solar energy, with resources stored in both a cistern and batteries. The materials chosen for the building include a lightweight wooden framework alongside thick hempcrete walls. This combination ensures energy efficiency and a minimal environmental impact. The exterior is finished with triangular wooden panels that resist harsh weather and blend naturally with the landscape.

Functional Layout

Inside Mind Nest, the layout is practical and efficient. Partitions create distinct areas for essential functions like food storage and dry toilets. Movement through the space is aided by a wooden spiral stair and a rope ladder, which save room while maintaining a clean look. The design enhances the experience of living in the forest, encouraging a sense of openness and connection to nature.

Mind Nest also features a fireplace, which supports the heating system along with a thermal solar panel on the roof for hot water. These elements reflect a commitment to sustainability and comfort, allowing occupants to live harmoniously within their environment. Ultimately, the building encourages a deep engagement with nature, promoting calmness and reflection.

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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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