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Rainwater-Collecting Retreat with a Green Roof and Natural Stone Features

Author:
Victoria Ortiz juri
Rainwater-Collecting Retreat with a Green Roof and Natural Stone Features

Project in-detail

With a semi-buried design that integrates rainwater collection and a green roof, this versatile studio fosters a deep connection to the surrounding landscape while serving as a space for yoga and communal gatherings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building is semi-buried to minimize visual impact on the landscape.
02
A green roof incorporates local flora, enhancing biodiversity.
03
The design features a dedicated water patio to support meditation practices.
04
Large windows provide expansive views while integrating natural ventilation.
05
Flexible elements in the shala allow for adaptability during various activities.

The project is situated on a steep slope surrounded by dense trees and natural undergrowth, creating an environment that promotes interaction with nature. It functions as a multifunctional studio aimed at fostering a sense of balance and connection with the landscape. The design centers around minimizing visual impact while enhancing the experience of users within a sustainable framework. Through its thoughtful form, the building seeks to harmonize with the existing ecosystem.

SUSTAINABLE DESIGN

The overall structure takes a semi-buried form, which allows it to blend into the terrain and reduce disruption to the natural setting. This integration not only improves thermal performance but also minimizes the building's presence in the landscape. A green roof, rich with native plants, enhances ecological functions such as insulation and supports local biodiversity, reflecting the commitment to environmental care.



INTERIOR SPACES

The interior layout emphasizes flexibility, accommodating different activities while ensuring smooth transitions between indoor and outdoor areas. The main yoga space, known as the shala, is oriented to capture views of the western horizon. With large windows and generous patios, the design fosters a sense of openness and encourages occupants to engage with the surrounding environment, enriching their overall experience.



ELEMENTAL DESIGN

Each section of the building is linked to one of the four classical elements: earth, water, air, and fire. The shala, connected to the earth, allows users to engage with the ground during yoga practices. A calm water patio introduces soothing sound through a fountain, enhancing meditation. An air zone serves as a transitional space with large openings that promote natural airflow, while the rooftop garden, featuring a fireplace, represents the fire element and creates a place for social gatherings amidst nature.



MATERIALS AND ENERGY USE

Locally sourced materials, specifically wood and stone, strengthen the connection to the landscape and promote sustainable practices by reducing transportation emissions. Solar panels integrated into the design work to enhance energy efficiency, while systems for collecting rainwater support responsible water management. Such elements highlight the commitment to maintain ecological balance within the architectural framework.



A notable design detail is the flexible folding elements in the shala that allow easy adaptation of the space for various activities. This feature keeps the dialogue with the outdoors active, ensuring that the building responds not only to the needs of its users but also to the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

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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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