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Modular Wooden Pods with Rainwater Harvesting for Sustainable Retreat Living

Authors:
Ege Baki, Dirk Strassner
Modular Wooden Pods with Rainwater Harvesting for Sustainable Retreat Living

Project in-detail

Constructed from modular wooden elements and equipped with rainwater harvesting systems, these sleeping pods provide a sustainable retreat experience amidst the natural beauty of the Portuguese countryside.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for quick assembly and disassembly to adapt to site conditions.
02
Cross-ventilation is achieved through strategically positioned portholes and terrace openings.
03
Rainwater harvesting systems support sustainable water management for the retreat.
04
Foundations are tailored to the unique topography of the site, minimizing environmental disruption.
05
Sustainable practices are reinforced by adhering to a cradle-to-cradle material philosophy.

The design focuses on modular sleeping pods located in the Portuguese countryside, intended for the Vale de Moses Yoga retreat. The concept emphasizes sustainability, flexibility, and a strong connection to the natural landscape. These pods aim to provide visitors with a peaceful experience, fostering relaxation and rejuvenation in a tranquil setting.

Integration with Landscape

The design employs a prefabricated wooden construction method, allowing for quick assembly and disassembly. This feature gives the pods versatility to adapt to different site conditions and user requirements. Each pod’s foundation is specifically designed to fit the unique characteristics of its location, ensuring that the environment remains minimally affected. This approach highlights the careful consideration given to coexistence with nature.

Sustainable Material Use

Following a cradle-to-cradle model, the project emphasizes the need for recyclable materials that have minimal environmental impact. Four primary materials—wood, steel, glass, and ceramics—are incorporated throughout the design. These materials not only offer durability but also create a warm atmosphere within the living spaces. This thoughtful selection showcases a commitment to practicality while ensuring a comfortable experience for the guests.

Climatic Responsiveness

The design addresses the climate of the region effectively. Smaller roof surfaces oriented towards the south help reduce heat gain during the day. Integrated sunshades provide shading for the windows and terraces, promoting a cool interior. Glazing is strategically chosen, with options for permanent and sun protection features to manage temperatures inside. Large terrace openings and well-placed portholes allow for cross-ventilation, enhancing airflow and maintaining thermal comfort.

Water Management Solutions

Sustainable practices extend to the management of water. Rainwater harvesting systems are designed for use in restrooms and bathing areas, with storage tanks located beneath each pod. Greywater recycling systems offer options for treatment through either a greywater pond or a three-stage filtration method. These features support irrigation and demonstrate a commitment to environmental care, fostering a self-sustaining ecosystem at the retreat.

The sleeping pods exemplify a thoughtful balance between functionality and connection to nature. Each element is designed to ensure comfort while being conscious of the environment, creating a refuge that invites visitors to engage with their surroundings. This design aims to enhance the overall experience of relaxation and peace amid the beauty of the Portuguese landscape.

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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

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