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Natural Clay Tiles and Local Pine Design Elements in an Eco-Friendly Family Retreat

Authors:
Mylène Gouin, Arnaud Jouanchicot
Natural Clay Tiles and Local Pine Design Elements in an Eco-Friendly Family Retreat
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Constructed with local pine and natural clay tiles, the retreat's design harmoniously integrates modular living spaces that prioritize sustainability and privacy amidst a mountainous landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced maritime pine and insulated with oak cork panels.
02
Integrates a grey water recycling system to promote resource conservation.
03
Utilizes natural clay for terracotta tiles, reflecting local craftsmanship.
04
Modular pod design allows flexibility in placement and construction.
05
Features large glass facades to enhance natural light and connection to the landscape.

The architectural project "Cahute !" embodies the concept of a minimalistic retreat focused on enhancing the relationship between individuals and the natural environment. Situated in a mountainous region, the design prioritizes sustainability and locality, emphasizing the use of locally sourced materials. The project addresses both private and communal needs, featuring individual living pods that encourage engagement with the surrounding landscape while preserving personal space.

Spatial Configuration and Functional Aspects

This architectural design incorporates several distinct elements that illustrate its functionality. Each living unit, or pod, is strategically placed to offer views of the valley while ensuring privacy for users. The arrangement is designed to foster an atmosphere of connection among occupants without compromising individual retreat spaces.

The project integrates sustainable systems, including a grey water recycling mechanism that supports ecological balance. The interior spaces emphasize comfort with a minimalistic aesthetic, utilizing natural finishes to create a warm environment. The use of large glass facades facilitates indoor-outdoor relationships, allowing occupants to fully engage with their surroundings, thereby enhancing the overall experience of living in harmony with nature.

Sustainable Design Approaches

One of the project's unique aspects is its commitment to sustainability through material selection and ecological design strategies. The use of Portuguese maritime pine for structural elements provides a durable backbone to the design, while oak cork panels ensure effective insulation. Local grey clay is featured in the terracotta tiles, reflecting the regional craft and maintaining aesthetic coherence. This thoughtful choice of materials contributes to reducing the project’s carbon footprint and encourages the support of local economies.

Another key innovative approach is the modular design of the pods, allowing for flexible placement and ease of construction in varied terrain. This versatility not only reduces construction time but also enables the design to adapt to the unique features of the site.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the "Cahute !" project, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. Delving into the architectural ideas will provide deeper insights into the techniques and methodologies employed, showcasing how this project stands distinct among similar architectural endeavors.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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