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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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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.

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Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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