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Sustainable Getaway Featuring Local Stone and Sloped Roof Emphasizing Mountain Views

Author:
Akbar Ali Khan
Sustainable Getaway Featuring Local Stone and Sloped Roof Emphasizing Mountain Views

Project in-detail

Utilizing local stone and a sloped roof design that mirrors the surrounding mountains, the retreat integrates ecological practices while providing a tranquil hospitality experience in a natural setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local stone to blend seamlessly with the mountainous landscape.
02
Employs a sloped roof design that enhances rainwater management.
03
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetics.
04
Features extensive glazing to maximize natural light and mountain views.
05
Integrates native plant landscaping to promote ecological balance.

### Overview of Nathia Nature Retreat

Located in Northern Pakistan, the Nathia Nature Retreat is designed to harmonize modern living with the natural landscape. The retreat serves as a serene escape, encouraging visitors to engage meaningfully with their surroundings. Addressing the challenges posed by its elevated and densely forested environment, the retreat's design integrates the beauty of the mountainous terrain with strategically planned architectural volumes.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The layout consists of multiple distinct blocks, each designated for specific functions such as guest accommodations, communal areas, and a main lobby. This configuration optimizes both views and privacy, enhancing the overall guest experience. The spatial arrangement supports efficient movement for guests and staff, creating a sense of discovery as one navigates through the retreat.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

A carefully curated material palette reinforces the retreat’s connection to its natural setting. Local stone provides durability and resonates with the locale, while timber, specifically spruce and cedar, adds warmth and texture. Expansive glass elements incorporate natural light, bridging indoor and outdoor environments. Additionally, the use of a lightweight steel framework facilitates modern architectural expression. The design incorporates sustainable practices, including energy-efficient orientation, rainwater harvesting systems, and local material sourcing, thereby supporting community growth and minimizing environmental impact.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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