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Natural Wool Insulation in an Edgy Retreat for Mindful Living

Authors:
Ovidiu Alexandru Pleșea, Arina Moga, Rebeca Faur
Natural Wool Insulation in an Edgy Retreat for Mindful Living
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With a central fireplace that encourages communal interaction and walls insulated with natural wool, the design creates a meditative retreat that addresses essential needs for nourishment, cleanliness, and mental clarity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Centerpiece is a fireplace that serves as a communal gathering point.
02
Structure promotes a fluid connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
03
Natural wool insulation enhances energy efficiency and comfort.
04
Design encourages mindfulness with dedicated areas for reflection and cleansing.
05
Edgy architectural form contrasts with warm interior spaces.

The project presents a thoughtful exploration of human needs, focusing on nourishment, cleanliness, and clarity of mind. Located in a setting that encourages well-being, the design integrates these core requirements into its layout and aesthetics. The interpretation of light and warmth serves as a guiding concept, shaping the environment and creating a space that resonates with its purpose.

Spatial Arrangement

Visitors first encounter a bold, angular block structure that challenges typical architectural expectations. As they move closer, the arrangement of three distinct buildings becomes clear. These structures are separated by open spaces, allowing the architectural contrasts to be revealed gradually. This spatial organization fosters a relationship among the buildings while maintaining a cohesive overall design.

Central Features

A fireplace takes center stage within a courtyard, offering both warmth and a social gathering point. It draws people together, encouraging interaction and connection. The positioning of the fireplace reflects a functional necessity, while also contributing to the inviting atmosphere of the space.

Materiality and Sustainability

Wood serves as the primary material in construction, establishing a strong link to the natural world. The inclusion of natural wool for insulation supports not only effective temperature control but also sustainable practices. This choice of materials provides comfort within the living areas while minimizing environmental impact.

Functional Spaces

Dedicated areas for sleeping and eating are integrated throughout the design, allowing for natural movement between different functions. These spaces enhance daily routines and support an easy flow of activity. Additionally, spaces for spiritual and physical cleansing highlight the aim to foster mindfulness and personal reflection amidst daily life.

The design achieves a balance between warmth in the interiors and a cooler exterior, providing a space that promotes both individual and communal experiences. This careful arrangement encourages a connection to the environment while meeting essential human needs.

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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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