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Membrane Façade and Triangular Frames Creating a Secluded Retreat in Nature

Authors:
Martina Wylie, Zi han Wong
Membrane Façade and Triangular Frames Creating a Secluded Retreat in Nature

Project in-detail

With a double-skinned membrane that enhances insulation and large triangular frames for structural support, the cabin creates a harmonious retreat in nature dedicated to wellness and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a spiritual gateway design to enhance connection with nature.
02
Features a dual-level layout, separating therapeutic and movement activities.
03
Uses a double-skinned membrane to improve insulation and energy efficiency.
04
Incorporates large triangular frames that echo natural forest forms.
05
Blends seamlessly into the landscape for a discreet yet impactful presence.

"The Forest" cabin is located in a scenic area of Portugal, designed as a space where people can connect with nature. The cabin draws on the idea of forest bathing, aiming to create an environment that promotes relaxation and a sense of well-being. Its design encourages users to engage with the natural surroundings while offering areas for both quiet reflection and physical activity.

Structural Design

The cabin features vertical elements that rise from the ground, meeting to form an entrance. This entrance serves as a symbolic gateway into a space focused on spiritual cleansing. Large triangular frames provide support for the structure and enhance its connection to the forest. The design reflects shapes found in nature, blending the building with its environment.

Interior Layout

Inside the cabin, the space is thoughtfully divided into two levels. The ground floor is dedicated to therapeutic treatments, providing a calm and soothing setting for visitors. Meanwhile, the upper floor is designed for movement activities, allowing for a more dynamic experience. This separation helps address different user needs and creates a range of environments to explore.

Natural Features

The design pays close attention to environmental factors. The upper level includes a membrane façade, which allows natural light to flood into the space. This not only brightens the interior but also helps manage temperature, creating a comfortable atmosphere throughout the seasons. The use of a double-skinned wall system adds insulation and strength to the building, making it well-suited for its surroundings.

The Forest cabin emphasizes user experience and environmental harmony. Each element of the design focuses on creating a peaceful retreat where visitors can reconnect with the natural world around them. The thoughtful details contribute to an overall sense of balance and tranquility, fostering a space that invites contemplation and engagement.

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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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