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Hinoki Cypress in a Natural Setting for Communal Tea-Making Retreat

Author:
Kim Kyungmin
Hinoki Cypress  in a Natural Setting for Communal Tea-Making Retreat

Project in-detail

Crafted from hinoki cypress, the guest house embraces communal tea-making within a design that prioritizes natural light and spatial flow, fostering a deep connection with its surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from hinoki cypress, known for its natural antifungal properties.
02
Designed to optimize natural light through strategic window placement.
03
Incorporates dedicated areas for tea drying and preparation.
04
Features a central stone fireplace that serves as a thermal anchor.
05
Utilizes a bent A-frame structure to enhance spatial dynamics.
The Ozolini Teamakers Guest House represents a practical approach to architectural design, emphasizing functionality and community engagement in a natural setting. This project serves as both a retreat and a center for tea-making, catering to visitors who seek an authentic experience grounded in the traditions associated with tea culture. The architecture harmonizes with the surrounding landscape, creating an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and social interaction.

The guest house is designed with thoughtful consideration of sunlight exposure and spatial flow. The structure incorporates large windows that facilitate natural light penetration while offering views of the environment. An emphasis on verticality in its design enhances the feeling of spaciousness, thus allowing occupants to engage comfortably with both the interior and exterior spaces.

Functional Spaces and Community Focus

Central to the building's design are areas dedicated to tea-making, which include facilities for preparation, drying, and packaging. These spaces are organized to support an efficient workflow while promoting interaction among guests. The layout fosters a sense of community through shared activities, creating opportunities for social engagement around the art of tea-making.

The ground floor features a living room and meditation area designed to promote relaxation. A prominent stone fireplace serves as a focal point, combining aesthetics and practicality. The integration of a fireplace not only enhances the comfort of the living space but also embodies a traditional element that resonates with the local culture.

Material Choices and Sustainability

The project utilizes a material palette that reinforces its connection to nature, primarily comprising wood, stone, and steel. Warm wooden cladding creates an inviting exterior while maintaining durability. The use of steel in the roofing system ensures structural integrity, alongside an appealing contrast against the wooden elements. Stone features, particularly around the fireplace, add a tactile dimension that blends with the surrounding environment.

A unique aspect of the design is the incorporation of Hinoki cypress in the bathrooms. This material is chosen for its ecological properties and pleasant aroma, which contribute to a sensory experience that enhances guest comfort and health.

Innovative Architectural Approaches

The Ozolini Teamakers Guest House stands out due to its deliberate design approaches that encourage sustainability and biophilia. The alignment of the building’s axis with the sun’s path demonstrates an understanding of natural light as a critical element in architectural design. This not only reduces reliance on artificial lighting but also creates a dynamic environment as light changes throughout the day.

Additionally, the spacious layout allows for flexibility in usage, accommodating varying guest needs while promoting collective participation in tea-related activities. The thoughtful integration of public and private areas ensures that all guests can enjoy personal space while also engaging in communal experiences.

For individuals interested in delving deeper into the architectural merits of the Ozolini Teamakers Guest House, it is advisable to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and overall architectural designs. These elements provide critical insights into the design process, unique approaches, and the thoughtful execution of this project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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