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Responsive Wooden Panels and Natural Ventilation in a Sustainable Timber Retreat

Authors:
Gabrielė Lebednykaitė, Ramunė Mockapetrytė, Kristina Šilauskytė, Rusnė Griškutė
Responsive Wooden Panels and Natural Ventilation in a Sustainable Timber Retreat

Project in-detail

Designed with responsive wooden panels that adapt to environmental changes, the retreat utilizes natural ventilation and sustainable timber construction to provide an efficient and harmonious living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed to mimic the structure of a pine cone, enhancing natural adaptation to environmental conditions.
02
Incorporates a greywater filtration system for resource-efficient water management.
03
Features responsive wooden panels that expand and contract based on temperature changes.
04
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic integration with the landscape.
05
Offers panoramic views through strategically placed windows that optimize natural light.

The Pine Cone Pods project is an architectural endeavor located in Vale de Moses, designed to provide unique living experiences that integrate seamlessly with the natural environment. This project represents a deliberate attempt to merge modern architecture with a structure that reflects organic forms, specifically inspired by the anatomy of a pine cone. The design serves as a retreat for individuals seeking tranquility while fostering a connection to the surrounding landscape.

The primary function of the Pine Cone Pods is to offer sustainable living spaces that promote individual well-being and ecological consciousness. Each pod is structured to minimize environmental impact while maximizing the use of natural light and ventilation. The architectural design ensures that the pods are not merely functional but also enhance the aesthetic quality of their surroundings.

Unique Design Approaches

One distinguishing feature of the Pine Cone Pods is their biomimetic design. By emulating the structural dynamics of a pine cone, the pods utilize responsive wooden panels that adapt to external weather conditions. This design approach enhances thermal comfort while maintaining a minimal footprint on the landscape. The exterior integrates treated timber that is durable and harmonizes with the surrounding vegetation. This choice of material conveys a commitment to sustainability while ensuring aesthetic coherence with the natural environment.

The incorporation of sustainable water management systems into the design is another noteworthy aspect. Each pod includes a greywater filtration system, facilitating the recycling of water for non-potable uses. This feature is practical and demonstrates an awareness of resource conservation, making each pod a model of modern sustainable architecture.

Functional Layout

The layout of the Pine Cone Pods is carefully executed to optimize user experience. The interior space is organized with an open-plan design, promoting a sense of spaciousness while accommodating essential living functions. The strategic placement of windows and skylights maximizes daylight penetration, reducing the need for artificial lighting and creating a comfortable atmosphere.

Living areas are designed for versatility, allowing for both social interactions and solitary retreats. Compact bathroom facilities complement the living spaces effectively, ensuring comfort without compromising on space efficiency. Together, these elements contribute to a coherent living experience that respects both human needs and environmental considerations.

The Pine Cone Pods project stands out in its approach to sustainability and integration with nature. It not only provides functional living spaces but does so in a manner that respects and interacts with the ecological context. For those looking to delve deeper into this project’s architectural plans and detailed designs, exploring the complete presentation will provide further insights into its unique architectural ideas and functional details.

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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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