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Sustainable Retreat in Weathered Siberian Larch Featuring Natural Moss Insulation

Author:
Troy Holloway
Sustainable Retreat in Weathered Siberian Larch Featuring Natural Moss Insulation

Project in-detail

Constructed with weathered Siberian larch and insulated with moss panels, the cabin serves as a tranquil retreat designed for meditation and self-reflection in a forest setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using weathered Siberian larch that integrates with the forest landscape.
02
Moss panels provide natural insulation and blend the cabin into its environment.
03
Designed for a north-south orientation to maximize sunlight exposure.
04
Includes a small woodstove that invites user interaction through wood collection.
05
Features operable triple-glazed windows for enhanced natural ventilation.

Connectivitea is a silent meditation cabin located in a peaceful forest environment. The cabin encourages individuals to disconnect from electronic devices and reconnect with both nature and their own thoughts. It embodies a design concept focused on minimalism and tranquility, creating a space where contemplation and mindfulness can thrive.

Orientation and Layout

The design of the cabin is oriented north-south to capture sunlight effectively throughout the day. This thoughtful orientation enhances the connection to the changing light and natural surroundings, which helps to reset the body’s internal clock. Inside, the layout clearly separates spaces dedicated to different daily activities, including relaxation, creativity, meditation, and personal care. This clarity allows for a focused experience tailored to the needs of each visitor.



Functional Elements

A small woodstove plays an important role in the cabin’s functionality. It not only provides warmth but also invites the user to engage in the simple act of gathering firewood. This practical element adds a physical activity component to the stay while also offering the comfort of warm beverages. Additionally, the design includes a workspace that fosters creativity, complemented by a settee positioned near the fireplace. This arrangement allows for moments of reflection and rest, encouraging a balanced use of the space.



Material Selection

Materials for the cabin are chosen for their ability to blend with the natural setting while also offering durability. The roof features moss panels over a 2-ply SBS membrane, which aids in insulation. Prefinished metal is used for the fascia, downspouts, and gutters to withstand the elements. Weathered Siberian larch serves as cladding, reinforcing the connection to the forest. Triple-glazed operable windows provide natural ventilation and energy efficiency, creating an inviting atmosphere while maintaining visual links to the outdoors.



Design Detail

The design pays close attention to details, such as linseed oil finishes applied to the Siberian larch decking and screening. These details enhance both the appearance and ecological aspects of the cabin. Thoughtful storage solutions for wood, propane, and extra water jugs contribute to maintaining a tidy environment. This focus on practicality combines with elegance, underscoring the cabin's purpose as a calm retreat within nature.

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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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