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Hemp Insulation and Wooden Slats Defining Sustainable Retreats in Nature

Authors:
Andrea Galeotti, Farhad Khairkhah, Nicolò Betti
Hemp Insulation and Wooden Slats Defining Sustainable Retreats in Nature
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Utilizing hemp insulation and wooden slats, the cabins integrate sustainable materials with a design that fosters mindfulness and connection to the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Hemp insulation enhances sustainability and energy efficiency.
02
Wooden slats create a natural aesthetic while providing structural support.
03
Waterproof membranes protect against moisture and extend cabin longevity.
04
A bent A-frame design allows for improved airflow and light penetration.
05
The design seamlessly integrates with the hilly terrain of Vale de Moses.

The Meditation Cabins in Vale de Moses, Oleiros, Portugal, represent a well-considered retreat that emphasizes simplicity and a strong connection to the surrounding environment. Set in a beautiful landscape, the cabins serve as spaces for mindfulness and reflection, featuring a design that encourages occupants to engage with nature.

Design Concept

The concept behind the cabins centers on minimalism, influencing both their shape and layout. The design is organized to prioritize function while creating a comfortable atmosphere. Strategic placement of entry points maximizes openness and allows for an easy flow between living spaces and the outdoors.

Structural Integrity

A selection of carefully chosen materials ensures the cabins are sturdy and emphasize a commitment to sustainability. Waterproof membranes are used to protect the structures from moisture damage, while insulation methods help maintain comfortable temperatures inside. A vapor barrier effectively manages humidity, contributing to the durability and comfort of the cabins.

Water Management

The design incorporates practical water management systems to address essential needs while being mindful of the environment. A main tank and pump setup enables efficient reuse of water for laundry and garden watering. This approach supports sustainable practices and highlights the connection between the cabins and their natural surroundings.

Adaptability

Adaptability is an important part of the design, with solutions that cater to various environmental conditions. Attention is given to how the cabins sit within hilly and wooded areas, allowing them to blend with the landscape. This thoughtful consideration enhances resilience and helps maintain the aesthetic appeal of the structures as they respond to their unique site.

The use of local materials on the exterior promotes harmony with the landscape, creating a visual connection that reinforces the overall intent to blend architecture with nature.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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