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Reflective Surfaces and Wind Energy in a Tranquil Nature Retreat

Author:
Yiyang Liu
Reflective Surfaces and Wind Energy in a Tranquil Nature Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing reflective surfaces and a wind turbine, the design creates a serene retreat that encourages self-reflection and connection to nature within an intimate cabin setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective surfaces draw natural light into the cabin, enhancing the connection with the landscape.
02
A wind turbine replaces the traditional chimney, showcasing a commitment to renewable energy.
03
The square bed is positioned without a defined orientation, encouraging flexibility in use.
04
The double bathtub offers uninterrupted views of nature, enhancing relaxation and privacy.
05
Warm lighting in the central lift creates an inviting atmosphere as the focal point of the space.

"Romantic Cabin for Two" is designed as a private retreat surrounded by nature. The focus is on providing a peaceful space where occupants can feel connected to the environment. The design combines solid elements and transparent surfaces to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering a sense of tranquility and reflection.

Design Concept

The idea behind the cabin draws inspiration from silver fern leaves, which reflect light and guide people through the landscape. This influence is evident in the choice of reflective surfaces, which invite nature inside while encouraging personal introspection. The design blends modern elements with traditional cultural references to create an atmosphere that feels both current and enduring.

Spatial Organization

Inside, the layout includes five main components: a centrally located lift featuring warm lighting, two reclining chairs next to a fireplace, a dining area for two, a square bed without a defined direction, and a double bathtub that overlooks the surrounding landscape. This arrangement supports comfort and encourages movement, allowing residents to navigate the space easily while maintaining a warm and intimate setting.

Sustainability Features

A key feature of the cabin is the integration of a wind turbine, positioned where a traditional chimney would typically be found. This renewable energy source reflects a commitment to sustainability, reducing environmental impacts while enhancing functionality throughout the building. It ensures that the occupants enjoy an efficient living space.

Material Selection

Careful choices were made regarding the materials used in the construction. The specified materials include: wooden plank (roof) - 12 mm, wooden bar (supports) - 1.5%, waterproof underlayment - 3 mm, wooden slab - 30 mm, wooden I-beam with insulation - 356 mm, vapor barrier - 3 mm, wooden plank (facade) - 12 mm, wooden bar (vertical) - 24 mm, wooden slab (windproof and vapor diffusion) - 16 mm, plasterboard - 12.5 mm, and tiles (including mortar) - 13 mm. These materials not only contribute to the overall aesthetic but also ensure durability in the natural setting.

Particular attention is given to the placement of the bathtub, which faces the exterior landscape. This orientation allows occupants to enjoy views of nature while ensuring privacy, providing a serene experience within the retreat.

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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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