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Natural Wood Sanctuary Crafted from Norway Spruce and Dark Pine

Author:
Tsz hung Hu
Natural Wood Sanctuary Crafted from Norway Spruce and Dark Pine

Project in-detail

Constructed with Norway Spruce and dark pine, this space integrates a central courtyard that invites natural light and creates a serene environment for meditation amid the forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily with Norway Spruce and dark pine for a harmonious natural aesthetic.
02
Features a central courtyard designed to facilitate meditation and daily activities.
03
Strategically placed openings enhance natural light while maintaining privacy.
04
Integrates supporting functions within thickened walls to maximize usable space.
05
Located in the serene setting of the Ozolini Forest, promoting connection to nature.

"ONE MAN'S COURTYARD" is located in the calm environment of the Ozolini Forest. The design creates a space focused on meditation, blending in with nature and promoting inner reflection. It emphasizes a minimalist approach, balancing the need for privacy with a connection to the outdoors. The overall concept revolves around an experience that encourages contemplation in a quiet and natural setting.

Spatial Organization

The project features an interior courtyard as its central element. This space provides flexibility for meditation and everyday activities. The walls of the cabin define this courtyard while creating a controlled access to the outside through well-placed openings and a sky window. These design choices enhance the relationship between the interior and the lush forest, allowing light and air to enter while maintaining privacy.

Materiality

On the exterior, vertical strips of dark pine wood form the facade. This choice hides the inner workings of the cabin from view, creating a strong connection with the surrounding trees. The dark wood gives the structure a solid presence against the backdrop of nature. Inside, Norway Spruce panels add warmth and softness, contributing to a calming atmosphere that encourages relaxation.

Functional Integration

Supporting functions like storage, a toilet, seating areas, a heating system, and sleeping spaces are integrated into the thick walls of the cabin. This thoughtful approach maximizes the use of space while keeping the courtyard as the main focus. The layout allows for a free flow throughout the living areas, helping users feel at ease.

Light and Ambiance

Natural light plays an important role in this design. The arrangement of openings allows for a changing play of light and shadow as the sun moves. This light enhances the meditative quality of the interior and helps create a restful environment. Users can connect deeply with their surroundings in this peaceful, forested space.

The sound of leaves stirring outside adds to the experience, while the wooden surfaces mirror the natural tones of the environment. It is an inviting space that calls for quiet contemplation amidst the trees.

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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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