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Rammed Earth Retreat with Movable Partitions and Natural Green Spaces

Author:
Sumiya Ochirbat
Rammed Earth Retreat with Movable Partitions and Natural Green Spaces
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A stream canal connects Lake Bezdibene to a retreat built with rammed earth and movable partitions, creating adaptable spaces for meditation and community activities amidst nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth construction enhances thermal efficiency and sustainability.
02
Movable partition boards allow for dynamic reconfiguration of interior spaces.
03
Integration of a stream canal connects the building to Lake Bezdibene.
04
A designated Green Zone promotes agricultural activities like tea tree planting.
05
Large windows create continuous visual links to the surrounding landscape.

The project titled "Close to the Sky: Retreat Back to Nature" is located in a setting that fosters a strong relationship with the natural world. It serves as a retreat designed for relaxation and mindfulness, focusing on the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The aim is to create an atmosphere where individuals can step away from their busy lives and engage with the surrounding environment.

Spatial Organization

The layout features distinct areas for different activities, including living rooms, meditation spaces, and kitchens. Each space is positioned to maximize light and views of the landscape, enhancing the overall experience for users. Large windows are key in this design, allowing nature to filter into the spaces and creating a sense of openness.

Flexible Design

Movable partition boards are a notable element in the interior design. These partitions can be adjusted vertically and horizontally, providing flexibility that allows for various uses of space. This adaptability helps create environments that can easily transition between private moments and communal gatherings. The ability to change configurations enhances how people interact with the spaces.

Natural Elements

A Green Zone within the design creates a calming area reminiscent of being near a stream. This feature plays an essential role in promoting tranquility and emphasizes the importance of the natural world. The design encourages activities like planting tea trees, integrating agricultural practices into the architecture. This connection to nature enriches the user experience and emphasizes sustainability.

Water Feature

The proposed stream canal connects Lake Bezdibene to the facility, adding a water element that serves both aesthetic and functional purposes. This feature contributes to cooling the space and facilitates an engaging landscape that links the building to its surroundings. The inclusion of water creates a dynamic aspect within the overall design.

Materials used in the project include plywood, wood, metal, stone, concrete, rammed earth, and glass. These choices reflect a commitment to durability while maintaining an ecological sensitivity, ensuring that the structure serves its purpose effectively while enhancing the experience of those who use it.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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