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Rotating Structure with Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in a Natural Setting

Authors:
Leslie Midy, Clément Loyer
Rotating Structure with Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in a Natural Setting

Project in-detail

A rotating structure crafted from cross-laminated timber panels integrates seamlessly with the landscape, offering a unique retreat for contemplation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rotating structure adapts to seasonal sunlight and celestial events.
02
Crafted with cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance.
04
Bent A-frame design enhances spatial dynamics and visual interest.
05
Integrates geothermal systems for sustainable energy use.

The architectural project titled "A Clockwork Retreat" is designed as a contemplative space that promotes reflection and tranquility in a remote natural setting. The design focuses on the interaction between the built environment and its surrounding landscape, facilitating an experiential engagement with nature. By incorporating elements that allow for adjustments in orientation, the project emphasizes the relationship to time and environment, thereby enhancing user experience.

Unique design elements set this project apart from others. The architecture employs a rotating module that aligns with the sun’s trajectory and celestial phenomena, providing a dynamic spatial experience that shifts throughout the day and night. This innovative approach allows the structure to actively respond to its surroundings, encouraging inhabitants to embrace the natural changes in their environment.

Architectural Features and Functionality

The retreat is organized into distinct zones, promoting both communal and private interactions. Key functional spaces include contemplation areas, guest accommodations, and amenities designed to facilitate comfortable living while maintaining a low ecological footprint. Each space is thoughtfully oriented to maximize views and natural light, fostering a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor environments.

Material selection plays a critical role in the project's design. Utilization of wood contributes warmth and a natural aesthetic, while concrete provides structural integrity and resilience. Glass elements enhance transparency and visibility, inviting the landscape into the interiors. Metal is incorporated into mechanical systems required for the rotating mechanism, representing a modern contrast to the organic materials.

Sustainability is a core aspect of the project’s design strategies. Energy efficiency is achieved through geothermal heating systems, solar panels, and rainwater harvesting solutions. These elements work together to reduce the retreat's environmental impact while enhancing its functionality.

Exploring the project presentation reveals additional architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate the thoughtful integration of these features. The architectural ideas behind "A Clockwork Retreat" center on creating a harmonious living space that respects the surrounding landscape while providing a tranquil environment for personal reflection. Visitors are encouraged to delve deeper into the specifics of the project to fully appreciate its innovative design and construction methodologies, which exemplify principles of contemporary architecture.

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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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