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Grass Roof and Timber Structure Creating Healing Spaces in Nature

Author:
Simon Ottrand
Grass Roof and Timber Structure Creating Healing Spaces in Nature

Project in-detail

With a grass roof that enhances thermal comfort and a façade constructed from local timber, the design integrates healing spaces that encourage interaction with nature and promote wellness activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
The yoga room can be fully opened to connect with the terrace.
02
The sunscreen slats provide adjustable solar protection and aesthetic interest.
03
Design incorporates a grass roof that aids in temperature regulation.
04
Local timber is used, reinforcing sustainability and environmental harmony.
05
The layout emphasizes both communal and private areas for various activities.

The design is located in a tranquil natural setting, aiming to blend architecture with the surrounding landscape. Its main purpose is to create spaces that promote healing and connection with nature. The design concept focuses on incorporating interactive areas that invite visitors to enjoy their environment, including a garden with seating, a walkway for strolling, and a versatile terrace suitable for events and outdoor yoga.

Architectural Features

Central to the design is a large yoga room that can open completely on two sides, allowing it to connect directly with the terrace. This feature encourages movement between indoor and outdoor spaces and provides sweeping views of the valley. It enhances the atmosphere, making the environment feel more open and inviting.

Sustainable Elements

A notable aspect of the structure is the sunscreen slats that surround it. These serve a practical role by blocking direct sunlight and improving climate control. Their adjustable positions create a varied aesthetic for the building’s exterior, casting interesting shadows throughout the day. In addition, the grass roof helps maintain comfortable temperatures, further integrating the building with its natural surroundings.

Spatial Organization

The layout is organized to prioritize functionality. Core facilities like restrooms, changing rooms, and showers are strategically located for easy access, while ensuring privacy for users. This layout supports day-to-day activities without disrupting the overall experience of the space.

Community Engagement

The valley-facing side offers communal areas that include a kitchen, a seating space, and a library. These spaces are designed to foster social interaction among visitors, encouraging a sense of community. They provide a relaxed atmosphere for people to gather, share experiences, and enjoy their time in this peaceful setting.

Local timber is used throughout the design, enhancing both its visual appeal and practical utility. As visitors approach, they first notice the natural textures and colors of the materials, creating an instant connection to the landscape. The careful arrangement of these elements highlights a commitment to sustainability and the well-being of those who use the space. Each detail contributes to an environment that respects nature and serves its visitors.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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