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Stone and Wood Retreat Embracing Nature Through Open Glazing

Authors:
Janusz Patalas-poślednicki, Kamil Paszek, Jakub Szeszycki
Stone and Wood Retreat Embracing Nature Through Open Glazing

Project in-detail

With large glazing framing views of nature, the blend of stone and wood creates a serene environment that supports community engagement through tea workshops and communal gatherings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Large glazing elements serve as both windows and lanterns, enhancing visibility and aesthetics.
02
The design integrates an existing stone wall, preserving historical context and character.
03
A spiral staircase facilitates movement between public and private spaces while providing a visual connection.
04
Dedicated tea workshops foster community engagement and cultural exchange.
05
An expansive terrace connects indoor and outdoor areas, encouraging social interaction in a natural setting.

The design is located in the Ozolini neighborhood, known for its natural surroundings and historical charm. It serves as a space for community engagement, centered around tea workshops and gathering areas. The overall concept focuses on merging the building with its environment while respecting historical elements present on the site.

Design Concept
The architecture aims to connect deeply with the landscape around it. It highlights the old stone wall, which remains a key component due to its aesthetic and historical value. The wooden structure built alongside it has been reconstructed to fit the needs of the present while keeping in mind the longevity of materials. This combination reflects a balance between modern needs and traditional elements.

Spatial Organization
Inside, the layout allows for clear distinctions between public and private spaces. On the ground floor, a welcoming entrance leads to versatile areas for tea workshops and a large living room for gathering. This design encourages people to interact and participate in communal activities. The upper floor is allocated for private use, featuring three bedrooms and necessary facilities, offering a retreat from the public areas below.

Connection to Nature
Large glass panels are integrated into the building's gable walls. These panels invite natural light into the spaces during the day, enhancing the overall atmosphere. When night falls, the glass becomes a source of gentle light, creating a warm glow. Additionally, pathways around the structure lead into the surrounding landscape, promoting exploration and interaction with nature.

Vertical Circulation
The design features a spiral staircase that connects the two levels, enhancing movement throughout the building. This staircase serves more than just a functional purpose; it creates a visual link that maintains the relationship between public and private areas. The thoughtful integration of this element adds to the overall experience.

An expansive terrace opens from the ground floor, linking indoor activities with outdoor spaces, allowing for gatherings under the trees. It creates a natural extension of the living areas, fostering social connections while surrounded by the beauty of the natural landscape.

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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
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