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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

Project in-detail

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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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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