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Rainwater Collection and Triple Glazing Within a Timber Retreat

Author:
Vladimir Mulik
Rainwater Collection and Triple Glazing Within a Timber Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating sustainable rainwater harvesting and triple-glazed windows within its timber frame, the cabin offers a serene space for relaxation in the countryside.
5 key facts about this project
01
Timber frame construction with Rockwool insulation enhances energy efficiency.
02
Hot tub doubles as a rainwater collector for sustainable use.
03
Two skylights provide stargazing opportunities from the bedroom.
04
Panoramic windows in the bathroom offer views of the surrounding countryside.
05
Compact layout enables seamless indoor-outdoor living experiences.

The Tutu Mutu Cabin is a private retreat located in a quiet countryside area, designed for relaxation and a connection to the outdoors. Its minimalistic form centers around practical living while highlighting the importance of the surrounding landscape. The building spans two levels, featuring an open layout that allows for easy movement through various spaces while creating a sense of intimacy.

Design Concept

The design reflects a focus on creating different environments for various activities related to relaxation. On the first floor, the living area and kitchen are located in close proximity, allowing for easy meal preparation and social interaction. A spacious terrace extends the interior space outdoors, with a hot tub positioned to provide a calming view of nature.

Spatial Configuration

Efficient use of space is seen throughout the cabin. Essential features are carefully arranged in order to maintain a clean and organized atmosphere. A staircase near the entrance leads to the second floor, which holds a private bedroom and bathroom. These spaces are oriented towards the landscape, offering wide views that enhance the overall living experience. Skylights above the bed and shower serve as clever design elements, creating opportunities for stargazing and bringing natural light into the bathing space.

Sustainability Measures

Sustainability plays a key role in this design. The cabin incorporates a rainwater harvesting system, allowing for responsible water management. Collected rainwater is stored in an underground container for domestic use. Ozone filters are employed to purify the water, while reverse osmosis systems provide clean drinking water. The hot tub can also collect rainwater, further supporting eco-friendly practices.

Materiality

Constructed with traditional timber framing, the cabin is insulated with Rockwool to enhance energy efficiency. Windows are triple-glazed to offer good thermal performance while reducing energy loss. These materials come together to create a comfortable living environment that complements the minimalistic design.

The Tutu Mutu Cabin serves as a thoughtful example of how architecture can foster a connection with nature while providing comfort. Its careful consideration of light and space creates an inviting atmosphere, reflecting 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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