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Limestone and Terracotta Retreat Integrating Natural Light with Local Craftsmanship

Author:
Sander Scholte
Limestone and Terracotta Retreat Integrating Natural Light with Local Craftsmanship

Project in-detail

Constructed with locally sourced limestone and terracotta, the design skillfully harnesses natural light to create a serene retreat for communal gatherings and personal reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced limestone, enhancing regional authenticity.
02
Incorporates terracotta elements for thermal efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a dedicated meditation space promoting personal reflection.
04
Utilizes large glass panels to maximize natural light throughout the structure.
05
Incorporates local craftsmanship in design motifs, reinforcing cultural connections.

## Overview

Located within a serene natural environment, 'The Nest' serves as a multifaceted gathering space designed to unite community interaction with personal reflection. The project integrates public and private areas effectively to accommodate both communal activities and individual meditation, creating a welcoming atmosphere that balances functionality with aesthetic appeal.

## Spatial Organization

The layout of 'The Nest' is strategically delineated into distinct zones, enhancing circulation for guests, visitors, and staff. Public areas include a Tasting Room and a multifunctional space designed for communal dining and social interactions, alongside a Hearth and Salon that provide inviting venues for relaxation. Multiple entry zones facilitate smooth transitions throughout the building. Private quarters consist of en-suite bedrooms and dedicated spaces for meditation and prayer, ensuring guests have access to personal retreats. Utility areas include a well-appointed kitchen and dining space designed for both functionality and communal engagement.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The material choices for 'The Nest' reflect a commitment to environmental sustainability and regional relevance. Locally sourced limestone forms the foundation and walls, while various wood types offer warmth and organic texture for structural elements and decorative details. Terracotta accents link the design to the surrounding cultural landscape, and extensive use of glass maximizes natural light, promoting openness. Custom textiles enhance the interiors, introducing color and tactile diversity. This careful selection of materials not only supports aesthetic aims but also reinforces the project's ecological consciousness and connection to its environment.

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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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