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Limestone Facades and Serpent Motifs in a Creative Urban Retreat

Authors:
Affan Adil Khan, Wajiha Ali, Aliza Shah, Bisma Zia
Limestone Facades and Serpent Motifs in a Creative Urban Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating limestone facades and serpent motifs, the retreat seamlessly integrates cultural elements and contemporary design to provide an inspiring environment for artistic creation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Limestone highlights incorporate traditional Thai motifs, linking the design to local heritage.
02
Serpent motif design elements create a visual narrative throughout the building.
03
The project utilizes split levels to foster spatial flow and user interaction.
04
Large glass facades enhance natural light and connectivity with the surrounding environment.
05
Dedicated artists' studios offer both collaborative and private spaces for creative work.
The "Rejuvenation Retreat" is an architectural project located in Bang Muang Mai, Thailand, designed to serve as a creative space for artists. The primary intent of the retreat is to facilitate artistic expression and relaxation, accommodating a range of activities from collaborative workshops to solitary practice. The layout encourages dynamic engagement, emphasizing the balance between social interaction and individual focus.

The design incorporates multiple levels, each serving distinct functions. The ground and first floors are dedicated to public spaces, featuring exhibition areas and communal facilities to foster interaction between artists and visitors. The upper levels offer semi-private and private spaces designed for concentration and productivity, catering to the diverse needs of its users. Each floor is interconnected, inviting movement and exploration throughout the building.

Unique Design Approaches

The architectural approach of the "Rejuvenation Retreat" reflects the theme of "Snakes and Ladders," which symbolizes the challenges and triumphs of urban life. This metaphor is articulated through the building's layout, with split levels that mimic the ups and downs of creativity. The meticulous integration of traditional Thai motifs in the lamp designs enhances the local cultural narrative while remaining grounded in a contemporary aesthetic.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the project's identity. The use of limestone for decorative elements links the design to local heritage, while glass facades ensure a transparent connection to the environment. Steel and concrete provide structural integrity, allowing for innovative spatial configurations. The diversity of materials not only addresses functional requirements but also emphasizes the visual richness of the building.

Details and Functionality

The "Rejuvenation Retreat" features multiple distinct architectural details, including expansive windows that promote natural light, enhancing the overall ambiance. The railings and lamp motifs are designed with precision, drawing inspiration from historical contexts to create a cohesive visual language. Environmental considerations have been integrated into the design, maximizing passive energy strategies to reduce reliance on artificial lighting.

In summary, the "Rejuvenation Retreat" demonstrates a harmonious balance of function and design. By exploring the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers can gain deeper insights into the project’s innovative approach and local relevance. The project is an exemplary case of how architecture can respond to the needs of its community while remaining sensitive to its cultural context. For further details, readers are encouraged to examine the various architectural elements presented throughout the project documentation.
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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
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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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