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Logs and Phytoncide in a Tranquil Retreat Space

Author:
Lee Joowan
Logs and Phytoncide in a Tranquil Retreat Space

Project in-detail

Constructed from logs that naturally regulate moisture and contain phytoncide for mental well-being, the retreat offers a harmonious living space designed for relaxation and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Logs used in the construction provide natural fire resistance and adapt to moisture levels.
02
Phytoncide emitted by the wood supports mental well-being and reduces stress.
03
Strategically placed windows frame natural views and enhance daylight throughout the interior.
04
Interior spaces include dedicated meditation areas for reflection and tranquility.
05
The layout balances public and private spaces, encouraging both community interaction and solitude.

The project centers around a log house located about 100 kilometers from Riga, Latvia. Designed as a place for modern individuals to unwind, it merges daily living needs with a strong connection to nature. The overall design emphasizes sustainability and mental well-being, creating a welcoming space that encourages relaxation. By embedding the house within its varied landscape of forests, wetlands, and grasslands, the project fosters a harmonious relationship between human habitation and the environment.

Spatial Arrangement

The layout focuses on openness and horizontal expansion, promoting a smooth transition between areas for socializing and those for privacy. The living room and kitchen are designed as interconnected spaces, encouraging interaction among residents. This arrangement allows for easy movement throughout the home, enhancing daily life and making the environment feel more inclusive.

Natural Light and Views

Windows are a crucial feature of the design. They are placed thoughtfully to bring in as much natural light as possible while framing views of the surrounding landscape. This abundant use of windows strengthens the bond between indoor spaces and the natural world outside. Ceiling-embedded windows complement this design, allowing light to fill the areas from different directions throughout the day, which creates a vibrant atmosphere.

Materials and Sustainability

The primary material used for the construction is logs. This choice brings several advantages, including improved fire resistance and the ability to adjust to varying humidity levels. The use of logs not only contributes to a comfortable living environment but also aligns with ecological goals. The project is designed to last for hundreds of years while leaving a minimal environmental footprint. By prioritizing such materials, the house maintains warmth and intimacy in its living spaces.

Design Details

The design includes both private areas, such as meditation rooms and bedrooms, and communal spaces like the kitchen and living room. This thoughtful arrangement balances solitude with social opportunities, meeting the diverse needs of those who live there. A final detail worth noting is how the warm colors of the logs interact with natural light. This combination creates an atmosphere that invites tranquility and reflection, making a space where residents can find peace in their everyday lives.

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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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