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Lotus-Inspired Huts Elevated on Bamboo Stilt Structures for Nature Retreat Living

Author:
Diana Gallo
Lotus-Inspired Huts Elevated on Bamboo Stilt Structures for Nature Retreat Living

Project in-detail

Elevated on bamboo stilts, these lotus-inspired huts integrate natural ventilation and flexible interior spaces to create an immersive retreat experience focused on wellness and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Lotus flower design influences the shape and function of the huts.
02
Raised on bamboo stilts to prevent flooding during the rainy season.
03
Open patio fosters interaction between interior spaces and nature.
04
Flexible interiors support various wellness activities and meditation practices.
05
Sustainable features include rainwater collection and natural ventilation systems.

The Floating Huts at The Vine Retreat are designed to provide a peaceful environment that connects visitors with nature. Located at geographic coordinates 10°33'57.6"N, 104°21′42.7″E, these huts focus on wellness and meditation. The design uses round shapes and open spaces. These features promote light and air movement and foster a sense of calmness, providing a retreat from everyday life.

Structure and Layout

The huts are elevated on stilts, standing 0.50 meters high. This design protects them from flooding during heavy rains while allowing for views of the landscape. They feature an open patio that blends inside and outside living. Amenities like an outdoor shower and central fire lamp add to the experience, inviting residents to engage with the surroundings.

Functional Adaptability

Adaptability is key in the design. The huts can expand during hotter months, allowing for different activities at once. The interior layout includes flexible spaces that can accommodate futons and meditation areas. This thoughtful arrangement promotes mindfulness and relaxation by making it easy to connect with nature daily.

Materiality

Bamboo is the primary construction material, chosen for its strength and environmental benefits. The walls use bamboo panels that provide privacy while allowing light to enter. The roofs are made from thatched materials or coconut leaves, which offer effective weather protection and insulation suited for a tropical climate.

Design Details

Natural elements enhance the living experience, with climbing vines wrapping around outdoor areas. This greenery not only boosts the aesthetic appeal but also immerses residents in their lush surroundings. Additional features like rainwater collection and biosand filters underline a commitment to environmental sustainability. The huts function well within their ecosystem, creating a unique experience for all who visit.

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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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