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Skylit Octagonal Retreat Crafted from Sustainable Spruce and Recycled Materials

Authors:
Daniella Zlotogoura, Jose maria Vizcaya martinez, Adriana Consuegra navarro
Skylit Octagonal Retreat Crafted from Sustainable Spruce and Recycled Materials

Project in-detail

Crafted with sustainable spruce and an octagonal design, this compact retreat integrates a skylight for natural illumination and ventilation, offering a tranquil space for meditation and reflection in a forested setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features an octagonal design that enhances spatial fluidity and integration with nature.
02
Constructed with sustainably sourced spruce wood, emphasizing ecological responsibility.
03
Incorporates a skylight to maximize natural light while maintaining privacy.
04
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and environmental harmony.
05
Designed as a multi-functional space for meditation, yoga, and reflection.

The Focus Cabin is an architectural project designed to provide a serene space for meditation and reflection, situated within a forested environment. Its compact footprint of 5.2 square meters emphasizes functionality while promoting a deep connection with nature. The use of sustainable materials and an efficient design facilitates a peaceful retreat, focusing on the well-being of its users.

Design and Layout

This project features an octagonal geometric layout that encourages inclusivity and openness. The interior is characterized by adaptable spaces that serve multiple purposes, ideal for activities like yoga, meditation, and quiet contemplation. The vertical skylight allows natural light to flood the interior while maintaining privacy, creating a feeling of integration with the outdoor environment.

The materiality of the Focus Cabin is a vital aspect of its design. The primary construction material, spruce wood, not only offers aesthetic appeal but also aligns with sustainable building practices. This wood is complemented by wooden shingles on the roof, contributing to the cabin’s seamless integration with the surrounding landscape. Glass elements are strategically placed to enhance natural illumination, promoting energy efficiency while fostering a direct visual connection with the forest.

Sustainability as a Core Principle

The Focus Cabin exemplifies sustainable architectural practices. Its compact design minimizes land use, while the choice of local and recycled materials reduces the overall carbon footprint. Passive design strategies, including natural ventilation and thermal insulation provided by composite insulation panels, optimize the cabin's climate control without reliance on mechanical systems. Air vents and thoughtfully designed windows ensure a continuous flow of fresh air, enhancing the indoor environment while maintaining connectivity to the natural surroundings.

Unique Design Approaches

Distinctive to the Focus Cabin is its attention to psychological well-being and mindfulness. The configuration supports a variety of personal introspective activities and communal gatherings, enhancing the versatility of the space. Built-in storage solutions keep the interior uncluttered, allowing occupants to focus on relaxation and contemplation. The combination of sustainable features and an adaptable layout makes this cabin a thoughtful model for contemporary architectural practices aimed at fostering well-being and environmental consciousness.

For those interested in exploring the project further, architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs provide additional insights into the innovative ideas underpinning the Focus Cabin. Engaging with these elements will offer a deeper understanding of the design philosophy and the careful considerations that have shaped this unique architectural endeavor.

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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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