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Glazed Walls and Natural Stone in a Cozy Couples Retreat

Author:
Artur Gała
Glazed Walls and Natural Stone in a Cozy Couples Retreat

Project in-detail

With expansive glazed walls and integrated natural stone elements, the design creates a tranquil environment for couples seeking rejuvenation and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Expansive glazed walls enhance natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
02
Folding glass walls allow direct interaction with nature, promoting a seamless indoor-outdoor experience.
03
Minimalist furniture is integrated into the floor, reducing visual clutter and distractions.
04
Soft curtains on ceiling rails provide flexible privacy within the open layout.
05
Natural materials, such as wood and stone, reinforce the cabin's connection to its environment.

The cabin for couples is a carefully designed space located in the tranquil landscapes of New Zealand. It aims to serve individuals looking to escape the pressures of city life. The focus is on creating a connection with the natural surroundings, fostering a sense of well-being through its overall design. The concept prioritizes relaxation, allowing guests to unwind and rejuvenate.

Spatial Configuration
Large, fully glazed walls allow for stunning views of the green landscape, linking the interior of the cabin with the outdoors. This openness invites natural light into the space and offers visual connections to nature. Folding glass walls enhance the experience by making it easy for occupants to step outside and enjoy the fresh air, solidifying a bond with their environment.

Interior Layout
Inside, the cabin is organized to maximize comfort and privacy. Minimalist furniture is built into the design, reducing distractions and creating a peaceful atmosphere. Individual areas for sleeping, bathing, and socializing are clearly defined. Soft curtains on ceiling rails allow guests to create private spaces while still maintaining an overall feeling of openness.

Materiality
The design features natural materials, specifically wood and stone, which add warmth to the interior. These choices not only make the space comfortable but also strengthen the connection to the landscape outside. The materials work together to reflect an environmentally conscious approach while ensuring that the cabin is functional for its occupants.

Aesthetic Features
The design includes a ceiling that appears to float above the floor, contributing to a minimalist look. This unique feature links the interior with the exterior and creates a welcoming spatial experience. Guests are encouraged to enjoy the calming atmosphere, highlighting the importance of connecting with the natural world around them.

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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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