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Pivoting Doors and High-Density Insulation in Modular Forest Retreats

Authors:
Juan antonio Ramos, Montserrat Robles, Leticia Compean
Pivoting Doors and High-Density Insulation in Modular Forest Retreats

Project in-detail

With modular design incorporating high-density insulation and pivoting doors, the cabins provide a tranquil space for meditation, seamlessly connecting occupants to the surrounding forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Each cabin utilizes high-density polystyrene panels for superior insulation.
02
Large pivoting doors enhance the indoor-outdoor connection.
03
Celosias provide privacy while allowing natural light to filter through.
04
The modular design allows for flexible placement throughout the forest.
05
Internal layouts are precisely organized for meditation and rest.

The Forest Cabins project is situated in a quiet woodland area, intended to create a strong bond between occupants and their natural surroundings. The design serves as a retreat for those looking for a peaceful space to meditate and relax amidst the forest. Architecture plays a key role in this project, with an open, inviting layout that connects interior environments to the landscape outside.

Design Concept

At the center of the Forest Cabins is the idea of being close to nature. Each cabin encourages interaction with the environment, promoting stillness and reflection. The layout focuses on creating areas for meditation and rest, allowing occupants to enjoy a calming experience. The modular structure of the cabins enables them to be replicated across various locations within the forest while ensuring optimal sunlight exposure.

Architectural Features

The design incorporates features that enhance the connection to the outdoors. Large windows and pivoting doors allow natural light to enter, while also providing views of the surrounding trees. Celosias are used to maintain privacy while ensuring occupants can still appreciate the landscape. This design approach encourages a strong relationship with nature, allowing individuals to feel immersed in the forest setting.

Material Choices

Materials are carefully selected based on a thorough understanding of the site. Key components include high-density polystyrene panels for insulation, along with wooden beams and planks. These choices ensure comfort and energy efficiency while blending into the forest environment. The wooden elements add warmth to the interiors, reflecting the natural characteristics of the area.

Design Details

Inside, the cabins have a well-organized layout that includes spaces for service, meditation, and rest. The modular design allows for efficient use of space, creating a sense of order. Specific design elements, such as the curves of the wooden beams and the way light filters through the celosias, enhance the occupant's experience. These thoughtful details create a calming atmosphere, inviting individuals to appreciate the tranquility of the forest around them.

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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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