Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Living Roofs and Natural Textiles Enhance Wellness Retreat in Forest Setting

Authors:
Izabelė Jasaitytė, Gintarė Grikienytė, Elzė Andriuškevičiūtė, Ričardas Volkavičius
Living Roofs and Natural Textiles Enhance Wellness Retreat in Forest Setting

Project in-detail

Employing living roofs and locally sourced stone, this retreat seamlessly integrates with its forest environment while providing a serene space for meditation and wellness practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water management.
02
Features living roofs to promote biodiversity and enhance insulation.
03
Constructed using locally sourced stone, tying the building to its context.
04
Meditation cabins designed with deep-set windows for optimal natural light.
05
Utilizes hand-felted merino wool textiles for interior comfort.

The Human Cave project represents an innovative approach to architectural design focused on creating a retreat for yoga practitioners and individuals seeking tranquility. Nestled within a natural landscape, the design emphasizes harmony with the environment while addressing the needs for relaxation and self-reflection. This project incorporates various elements such as meditation cabins and communal spaces, all designed with a deep understanding of spatial orientation and environmental conditions.

The architectural concept behind the Human Cave revolves around the idea of a cave as a refuge, which supports spiritual and physical well-being. This idea is realized through the careful placement of structures, maximizing views of the surrounding landscape and enhancing the experience of the occupants. The buildings are oriented to harness sunlight and natural ventilation, contributing to energy efficiency and user comfort.

Innovative Structural Design and Material Usage The project employs a series of sleeping pods configured to mimic organic forms, which blend seamlessly with the topography. Each pod features a green roof, allowing it to integrate into the surrounding ecology while providing thermal insulation. The exterior is constructed from local stone, providing structural integrity and ensuring the buildings remain anchored in their landscape. The interiors, finished with warm wood accents, create an inviting atmosphere that supports relaxation.

Additionally, the project utilizes natural materials extensively, including hand-felted merino wool for furnishings and fixtures, reinforcing the connection to nature. The use of local stone for both structure and aesthetics ties the design to its site. A rainwater harvesting system is incorporated to manage water use sustainably, further demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility while enhancing the utility of the architecture.

Sustainability and Biophilic Design A key element of the Human Cave is its commitment to sustainability and biophilic design. The integration of living roofs contributes to the local ecosystem and promotes biodiversity. The design encourages occupants to engage with their surroundings, fostering a sense of well-being through direct interaction with nature. This is achieved not only through the extensive use of natural light but also through views framed by strategic openings in the architecture.

The project embraces an adaptive architectural approach that considers the local climate and geographical features. The layout is meticulously planned to allow for natural airflow and temperature regulation, reducing reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems. This holistic consideration of environmental factors underscores the unique approach of this design, differentiating it from more conventional architectural solutions.

For more detailed insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs of the Human Cave project, readers are encouraged to explore the extensive presentation that showcases the thoughtful architectural ideas behind this innovative retreat.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy