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Rammed Earth Retreat with Elevated Platforms for Seamless Nature Integration

Authors:
Jae Min Park, Jason Kim
Rammed Earth Retreat with Elevated Platforms for Seamless Nature Integration

Project in-detail

Elevated platforms and the use of rammed earth create a harmonious blend with nature, establishing a tranquil retreat focused on wellness and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated platforms allow for enhanced views and engagement with the surrounding landscape.
02
Rammed earth construction integrates local soil to provide thermal mass and acoustic benefits.
03
Flexible spaces adapt to both communal activities and individual wellness needs.
04
Large openings maximize natural light and create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
05
Water features are strategically incorporated to enhance relaxation and sensory experiences.

## Restorative Immersion: Architectural Overview

Located in a rural setting characterized by dense trees and a tranquil pond, the Restorative Immersion project aims to create an environment that fosters a deep connection with nature. The architectural design integrates seamlessly into its surroundings, prioritizing spaces designed for relaxation and healing. By employing innovative building techniques and sustainable practices, the project seeks to establish a retreat that enhances both individual and communal experiences through immersion in the natural landscape.

### Spatial Organization and Functional Zones

The project features a carefully considered spatial strategy that delineates various functional areas, facilitating both privacy and community interaction. Key components include:

- **Dining and Kitchen Area**: This communal space features an open layout that promotes social engagement while offering panoramic views of the landscape. It includes a small kitchen, bathroom, study/library, living room, and outdoor dining areas.

- **Indoor and Outdoor Spa Facilities**: The indoor spa includes shower facilities and private treatment rooms designed for tranquility, while the outdoor spa features a sauna and relaxation areas that invite direct interaction with the environment.

- **Accommodation**: A guest/staff house comprises two bedrooms and shared living spaces, ensuring comfort and privacy for visitors and staff alike.

This arrangement promotes fluid movement among the various spaces and balances communal engagement with opportunities for reflection.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The material palette reflects a commitment to local sustainability, enhancing the project’s connection to its environment. Key materials include:

- **Rammed Earth**: Employed in the spa areas, rammed earth incorporates the local blue clay, improving both acoustic and thermal performance while establishing a sense of place.

- **Wood**: Used extensively throughout the design, wood provides warmth and structural support, while also featuring louvered systems that modulate natural light.

- **Concrete and Glass**: Concrete is strategically utilized for stability and varied textures, while abundant glass allows for unobstructed views of the forest, reinforcing the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces.

- **Metal Accents**: These contemporary elements serve structural functions and provide a visual contrast to the organic materials.

Integrating these materials fosters a sensory-rich environment that invites visitors to engage with their surroundings while also addressing ecological concerns through thoughtful resource use.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
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