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Folded Geometry With Laminated Veneer Lumber and Charred Wood Shingles in a Sustainable Retreat

Author:
Rodrigo Hernandez
Folded Geometry With Laminated Veneer Lumber and Charred Wood Shingles in a Sustainable Retreat

Project in-detail

The folded geometry of laminated veneer lumber combined with charred wood shingles creates a distinctive aesthetic in this sustainable retreat designed to enhance the connection between living spaces and the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a folded geometry that enhances structural efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide durable weather resistance while contributing to the visual contrast of the façade.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized to maximize sustainability while reducing environmental impact.
04
The open-plan layout encourages natural ventilation and light flow throughout the living spaces.
05
Strategically oriented floor-to-ceiling windows frame panoramic views, integrating the interior with the landscape.

The Origami Retreat is an architectural project designed as a luxurious getaway, strategically situated with views of the Fifth James and Contributed Range. It serves the dual purpose of a living space and a refuge that emphasizes a strong connection with the natural environment. The project embodies a unique design concept through the use of an origami-inspired shell, which merges practical architecture with an artistic form.

The structure prioritizes the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing residents to experience the tranquil surroundings while enjoying modern amenities. Materials selected for the project are local and sustainable, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility. Key materials include laminated veneer lumber (LVL) for structural support, wooden shingles for roof covering, and various finishes such as plyboard and fine wood planks. These elements contribute to the overall aesthetic and functional design while minimizing the building's ecological footprint.

Natural Ventilation and Light Optimization

A defining feature of the Origami Retreat is its open floor plan, which encourages air circulation and maximizes daylight penetration. Floor-to-ceiling windows span the façade, promoting a seamless visual connection to the landscape. The strategic orientation of the building ensures that it receives abundant natural light, reducing reliance on artificial lighting throughout the day. Outdoor spaces include multiple decks and lounges, providing flexible areas for socializing, dining, or relaxation, further blurring the boundaries between the interior and the exterior.

Innovative Structural Design and Sustainability

The origami shell design not only enhances the building’s aesthetics but also improves its environmental performance. The intricate geometry of the roof facilitates proper drainage and insulation, greater energy efficiency, and protection from weather elements. Each detail contributes to a cohesive architectural approach that prioritizes functionality alongside visual appeal. The project demonstrates advancements in modular construction techniques by utilizing standardized components, making the building process more efficient and adaptable to local conditions.

Exploring the Architectural Details

To gain deeper insights into the Origami Retreat, it is recommended to review the architectural plans, sections, and other design documents. These elements reveal the meticulous thought process behind the design, including space organization and material selection. Such technical resources enhance understanding of how the project's unique design approaches achieve a balance between modern architecture and environmental consciousness. Exploring these aspects will provide clarity on the architectural ideas that define this retreat.

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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
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