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Self-Cleaning Pods with Active Carbon Filters in a Forest Setting

Author:
Jose Lacruz Vela
Self-Cleaning Pods with Active Carbon Filters in a Forest Setting
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Constructed with pods that incorporate self-cleaning gray water systems and active carbon filters, the design fosters environmental integration while providing adaptable accommodations for various users in a forested setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Each pod incorporates a self-cleaning grey water system using active carbon filters.
02
The design maintains a minimal footprint to preserve existing trees.
03
Pods are configured to adapt to various user needs and site conditions.
04
Natural light is enhanced through strategically placed skylights.
05
The project actively contributes to the forest ecosystem by using sustainable practices.

Forest Village is located in Vale de Moses and features a series of sleeping pods designed for flexible living arrangements. The project focuses on modular design to serve various user needs while emphasizing environmental responsibility. The overall concept is to integrate the structures harmoniously into the surrounding landscape, allowing for a closer connection to nature.

Modular Design

The architecture stands out for its modular approach. Each pod consists of smaller, low-maintenance modules, maintaining a footprint of around 15 m². This thoughtful design maximizes space utilization while ensuring minimal disturbance to the existing land and trees.

Functional Configuration

Each sleeping pod includes vital components like a landing ramp, a bedroom, a bathroom, and a self-sufficient installations module. This layout enables a clear separation of functional areas. The design also accommodates different users through varying typologies, such as family pods with extra bedrooms and group pods that can host larger gatherings.

Environmental Integration

A commitment to sustainability is evident throughout the project. The pods are strategically positioned to protect the natural tree canopy, reducing ecological impact. Moreover, each pod features systems to self-clean grey water using active carbon filters, which contribute to the health of the forest ecosystem underneath.

Sustainable Aesthetics

While specific materials used in the construction are not mentioned, there is an emphasis on choosing low-maintenance options in line with sustainable practices. The design carefully fosters an aesthetic connection to the surrounding landscapes of Vale de Moses, enriching the user experience with the natural environment.

The alignment of the pods with the stunning views of the area enhances the living experience, creating spaces that encourage relaxation and appreciation of the natural beauty while harmonizing with the landscape.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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