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Plant-Based Foil and Cozy Spaces in a Sustainable Forest Retreat

Authors:
Sebastian Seibert, Christian Brönner
Plant-Based Foil and Cozy Spaces in a Sustainable Forest Retreat

Project in-detail

With a focus on cozy living spaces enhanced by plant-based foil for durability, this retreat offers serene self-reflection in a sustainable forest environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cozy sleeping compartment designed for privacy and comfort.
02
Multifunctional staircase connects open meditation areas with varied perspectives.
03
Cross-ventilation facilitated by strategically placed openable windows.
04
Biodegradable materials used throughout for environmental sustainability.
05
External access to drinking water storage enhances self-sufficiency.

Hide n' Seek is a living space designed to promote personal reflection while being closely connected to nature. Located in a forested area, the design focuses on creating tranquility through its layout and the use of natural light. The structure encourages occupants to engage with their surroundings, enhancing their experience of solitude and mindfulness in a serene environment.

Conceptual Design
The design is centered around the idea of fostering a peaceful atmosphere. It features two main open areas intended for meditation and contemplation, connected by a multifunctional staircase. This staircase not only provides access between levels but also offers opportunities for observing the scenery from different angles. The arrangement of spaces strikes a balance, allowing for both openness and a sense of privacy.

Material Selection
The primary materials used in construction include steel and wood. Steel helps to ensure the strength and stability of the framework, while wood adds warmth and blends well with the natural surroundings. Stacked plank walls are utilized for insulation, helping to maintain comfortable temperatures throughout the changing seasons. Large, openable windows facilitate airflow and bring in natural light, contributing to a refreshing living environment.

Spatial Functionality
A sleeping compartment within the structure is designed to offer comfort and security. It features a layout that is intimate yet spacious enough to relax. Essential amenities, such as a sink for personal hygiene and a tea preparation area, are integrated into the design. This practicality supports the minimalist approach, providing necessary comforts while maintaining focus on the overall intention of the space.

Sustainability Features
The design prioritizes sustainability through the use of biodegradable materials and minimal foundations. This choice makes relocation easier and reduces environmental impact. A protective plant-based foil is applied to wooden surfaces to help shield against weathering. Attention is also given to details like access to drinking water storage and separate areas for wastewater management, enhancing the self-sufficiency of the dwelling.

Natural light plays a key role in the design, as the windows frame views of the surrounding landscape, inviting the outside in while creating a sense of security and refuge. This careful consideration of light contributes to a calming atmosphere, where occupants can fully engage with their environment and themselves.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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