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Semi-Polished Concrete and Dark Wood Cladding Enhance A Radial Retreat Amidst Nature

Authors:
Julio Lau borrayo, Luis ernesto Perez orta
Semi-Polished Concrete and Dark Wood Cladding Enhance A Radial Retreat Amidst Nature

Project in-detail

Incorporating dark wood cladding and semi-polished concrete within a radial layout, this residential retreat seamlessly integrates with its forested surroundings, offering both communal spaces and private quarters for mindful living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates large glass facades to enhance natural light and views.
02
Features a radial layout designed for efficient circulation between communal and private areas.
03
Utilizes locally sourced materials to minimize environmental impact.
04
Employs semi-polished concrete flooring for aesthetic contrast and functionality.
05
Integrates solar panels into the gabled roof for energy efficiency.

### Project Overview
The Ashram House is a residential structure located in a forested setting that prioritizes a connection with nature while promoting sustainable living practices. The design integrates traditional craftsmanship with contemporary architectural principles, balancing aesthetic value with practical functionality. The intent is to create a peaceful retreat that encourages a harmonious relationship between residents and their natural environment.

### Spatial Configuration
The layout employs a radial organization that facilitates efficient circulation throughout the structure. The ground floor features an open-plan living and dining area that flows into outdoor verandas, encouraging engagement with the surrounding landscape. An adjoining kitchen is designed for seamless interaction, enhanced by the presence of expansive glass facades that allow natural light and views into the exterior environment. The second floor comprises private quarters that maintain a sense of seclusion while remaining connected to communal spaces.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The material palette emphasizes eco-friendliness without compromising aesthetic quality. The exterior is clad in dark brown stained wood, offering both a modern look and durability against the elements. Interior finishes include blonde pine flooring for warmth, smooth plywood paneling for comfort, and white drywall for structural integrity. Concrete elements, such as semi-polished flooring, provide a sleek contrast to the warm wooden details. Additionally, the roofing incorporates solar panels, which promote energy efficiency and decrease reliance on non-renewable resources, reinforcing the commitment to sustainability. The overall design incorporates locally sourced materials, supporting regional artisans and minimizing transportation impacts.

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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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