Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Gray Water Systems and Corrugated Metal Roofs in Sustainable Retreat Cabins

Authors:
Norbert Hőgye, Zsófia Pap
Gray Water Systems and Corrugated Metal Roofs in Sustainable Retreat Cabins

Project in-detail

Utilizing corrugated metal roofs and gray water systems, the sustainable sleeping pods blend into the landscape while providing eco-friendly accommodations for visitors at the Vale de Moses Yoga Retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Each sleeping pod utilizes solar panels for renewable energy.
02
The design incorporates gray water systems for efficient resource management.
03
Corrugated metal roofs ensure durability while facilitating rainwater collection.
04
Pods are elevated on field screws to minimize ground disruption.
05
The layout allows for versatile accommodation of couples or small groups.

The sleeping pods at the Vale de Moses Yoga Retreat are eco-friendly accommodations located on the retreat's scenic slopes. The design emphasizes sustainability and functional living, aiming to provide comfort and accessibility in a peaceful natural setting. The concept carefully integrates the buildings with the landscape, enhancing the retreat's focus on relaxation and well-being.

Material Selection and Sustainability

Wooden structures form the basis of each cabin, contributing to both the look and strength of the pods. Effective heat insulation keeps the interior comfortable regardless of the weather outside. Roofs made from corrugated metal sheeting provide durability while ensuring proper water drainage. Together, these choices support an environmentally conscious approach that also reflects the retreat’s purpose.

Spatial Organization and Functionality

These pods are designed with essential living spaces, including a sleeping area, a shower, and room for storage. The sleeping area measures 16m², which accommodates couples or small groups. This layout promotes practical use of space, making sure that necessary amenities are within easy reach while maintaining a compact design. Elevation on field screws minimizes ground impact and helps with drainage, allowing the natural landscape to remain intact.

Energy Efficiency and Resource Conservation

Energy efficiency is a key focus of the design. Roofs are planned to support solar panels, allowing the use of renewable energy for heating water and powering electricity needs. Rainwater can be collected from these roofs for various uses, such as irrigation and handwashing. Also, a gray water system has been integrated to improve water efficiency while managing wastewater in an environmentally friendly way.

Natural light plays an important role in creating a welcoming atmosphere inside the pods. The placement of wooden doors and windows enhances ventilation and connects the occupants to the surrounding landscape. This thoughtful arrangement allows guests to enjoy both comfort and the beauty of nature.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy