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Rustic Embrace With Teak Accents in Elevated Residential Retreat

Author:
Antonio De vecchi
Rustic Embrace With Teak Accents in Elevated Residential Retreat

Project in-detail

The C-shaped structure, elevated to offer expansive views, embraces a refined L-shaped volume clad in teak, creating intimate spaces that blend indoor comfort with outdoor living in a residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
C-shaped structure enhances the concept of embrace in residential design.
02
Elevated design provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
03
Teak-clad volume introduces warmth and texture to the concrete framework.
04
Outdoor terrace integrates recreational elements for enhanced living experience.
05
Sustainable features include photovoltaic panels and a rainwater collection system.

The Hug presents an interesting balance between interaction and personal space. Located in a tranquil setting, the design features two distinct forms: a rustic C-shaped body that cradles a simple, linear L-shaped element. This arrangement conveys the gesture of hugging, capturing the essence of affection while also offering an intimate retreat for its inhabitants.

Concept and Form

The layout emphasizes a sense of privacy while still allowing for expansive views of nature. The structure is elevated from the ground, providing an appealing perspective that connects occupants with their surroundings. Inside, the living area is efficiently arranged, including a cozy corner with sofas that face a fireplace to encourage interaction. A compact kitchen is equipped with essential appliances, alongside a dining table suitable for four people.



Spatial Arrangement

Outdoor living is a key focus, showcased by a spacious terrace that features a whirlpool bath, sun loungers, and a dining table designed for two, complete with a space for a sunshade. This setup encourages outdoor enjoyment, creating opportunities for both quiet moments alone and lively gatherings with others.



Materiality and Sustainability

The choice of materials significantly contributes to the visual and practical aspects of the design. Reinforced concrete forms the main structural component, with parts of the walls left exposed in white to highlight the L-shaped volume. The C-shaped area is adorned with teak wood slats, adding warmth and texture to the overall look. Sustainability is also an important consideration; features like photovoltaic panels placed on the roof and a rainwater collection tank support environmental responsibility.



Design Details

One notable feature of The Hug is its ability to connect with the landscape while maintaining a sense of tranquility. The thoughtful arrangement creates pockets of space that feel both private and inviting. As occupants navigate between the two volumes, they can pause in these sheltered areas, finding moments of calm in their daily lives while enjoying the view.

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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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