Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Natural Ventilation and Pressure-Treated Wood Pods for a Sustainable Retreat Experience

Author:
Mario Ghosn
Natural Ventilation and Pressure-Treated Wood Pods for a Sustainable Retreat Experience

Project in-detail

Combining pressure-treated wood with natural ventilation, the retreat offers an immersive experience in sustainable design while serving as a tranquil space for yoga and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Each pod utilizes pressure-treated wood to enhance durability and resistance to the elements.
02
Full-height glazing allows for uninterrupted views while maximizing natural light.
03
Vertical gardens are incorporated into the design for improved biodiversity and air quality.
04
Rainwater collection systems support ecological sustainability and reduce water usage.
05
The lofted sleeping area optimizes vertical space within a compact footprint.

The architectural project "Zenith Emergence" is situated in Vale de Moses, Portugal, and encompasses a series of sleeping pods designed to foster relaxation and spiritual renewal. Nestled within a natural landscape, the pods are strategically placed to enhance the user's connection with the environment while providing the necessary amenities for comfort. Each pod serves a dual purpose as a private retreat space and a communal area for yoga and meditation sessions.

Spatially, the design is organized into two levels, with an open ground floor that includes living space and restroom facilities, complemented by a loft area designed for sleeping. The intention is to maximize vertical space while enabling natural light to permeate the interiors through full-height glazing. This choice not only invites the surrounding scenery into the living environment but also promotes a sense of openness and tranquility.

Sustainability is a core aspect of the project's design. The use of pressure-treated wood for structural elements contributes to a minimal environmental footprint, while the inclusion of rainwater collection systems reflects an investment in ecological responsibility. The integration of vertical gardens not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also serves a practical function, improving biodiversity and indoor air quality.

Innovative design strategies differentiate "Zenith Emergence" from more conventional projects in the wellness retreat sector. The architecture emphasizes minimalism, crafting an environment that prioritizes simple forms and sustainability without sacrificing comfort. Each pod's layout is intended to immerse guests in their natural surroundings, with large windows providing unobstructed views of the landscape and facilitating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. The choice of materials, including hardwood paneling, mosaic tiles, and concrete, reflects a commitment to durability and harmony with nature.

The overall design focuses on fostering a deep sense of connection, both among guests and with the natural surroundings. The orientation and placement of the pods are meticulously planned to maintain ecological integrity by minimizing tree removal and preserving existing flora. This approach ensures that the architecture does not disrupt the environment but rather complements it.

For a comprehensive understanding of the project's intricacies, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs, it is encouraged to explore the full project presentation. Advantageous insights into the architectural ideas and innovative approaches employed in this design will provide a deeper appreciation for the sophisticated integration of space and nature within "Zenith Emergence."

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy