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Hempcrete Retreat Featuring Hydroponic Agriculture and Geothermal Systems

Author:
Francis Fatade
Hempcrete Retreat Featuring Hydroponic Agriculture and Geothermal Systems
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Constructed with hempcrete and equipped with a hydroponic system and geothermal heating, the retreat embodies a sustainable approach to self-sufficient living while serving as a wellness getaway.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from hempcrete for enhanced insulation and durability.
02
Incorporates a rainwater collection system for independent water supply.
03
Includes a hydroponic garden that provides fresh produce for occupants.
04
Features geothermal heating and cooling for energy-efficient climate control.
05
Optimizes vertical space with a loft design that maximizes usability.

The Vine Retreat is located in Cambodia and designed to provide a place for relaxation and community interaction. With a focus on sustainability, it serves as a functional space that encourages self-sufficiency. The overall concept integrates natural elements, promoting a connection between the built environment and the landscape.

Spatial Efficiency

The retreat occupies a total area of 25 square meters and uses this space creatively to combine living, cooking, and meditation areas. The open-plan design allows for flexibility, making it easy to adapt the interior for different activities. A loft structure is central to the design, using vertical space well. Features such as a full-sized bed, a bench for seating, and ample storage enhance its functionality.

Sustainable Practices

Sustainable agriculture is a key part of the project. A hydroponic system is included in the cooking area, highlighting the retreat’s commitment to growing food. This feature allows guests to connect with the process of food production while encouraging a healthy lifestyle. Such practices support the idea of self-sufficiency and create a direct link between nature and daily living.

Water Management and Energy Efficiency

Water management strategies are well-considered, including a rainwater collection system that ensures a reliable supply. This system is crucial for minimizing the ecological footprint of the retreat. Alongside this, a geothermal heating and cooling system regulates indoor temperatures. This approach emphasizes energy efficiency and reduces reliance on conventional energy sources.

Material Use

Sustainable materials play an important role in the retreat's construction. Mentioned materials include hemp, lime, and water. The use of hempcrete provides properties like resistance to fire, water, and pests. This choice supports a low-impact building design and leads to longer-lasting structures that are easy to maintain.

Large openings in the facade invite natural light inside and frame views of the surrounding landscape. The overall design creates a warm environment that fosters connection while remaining practical and efficient.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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