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Swimming Pool with Perforated Walls Surrounded by Oak Canopy and Elevated Micro-Shelters

Author:
Petrica Butusina
Swimming Pool with Perforated Walls Surrounded by Oak Canopy and Elevated Micro-Shelters

Project in-detail

Perforated walls of the swimming pool create an aquatic habitat while elevated micro-shelters offer refuge for wildlife beneath a canopy of protected oaks, serving as a wellness center that invites a harmonious interaction between nature and users.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure allows wildlife and plant life to thrive underneath.
02
Micro-shelters attached to pillars provide refuge for local animals.
03
Organic corridor design weaves around protected oak trees.
04
Perforated walls of the swimming pool support aquatic biodiversity.
05
Integrated guest spaces open directly to the surrounding forest environment.

CO₂HABITATION is a design that emphasizes the relationship between humans and nature. Set within a forested environment, it functions as a wellness center where individuals can connect with the surrounding ecosystem. The overall design centers on blending living spaces with natural elements, fostering an atmosphere of respect and harmony for all forms of life.

Elevated Structure

The CO₂HABITATION SPA features an elevated construction supported by pillars. This design choice allows wildlife and plant life to thrive underneath, reducing the impact of construction on the local environment. The building sits above the ground, establishing a direct connection to the forest floor. An organic corridor winds around protected oak trees, offering a peaceful path for visitors to experience nature.

Functional Areas

The space is divided into four key areas: the therapy area, guests' area, service area, and dining area. The therapy section includes a wet and dry sauna, relaxation rooms, and therapy rooms dedicated to wellness treatments. In the guests' area, visitors will find living spaces, a communal kitchen, and private rooms designed for comfort. The service area supports the facility's operations, while the dining area features both indoor and outdoor seating, promoting a connection to the natural surroundings.

Unique Features

One interesting aspect of the design is the inclusion of micro-shelters attached to the pillars. These shelters provide a safe space for local wildlife during bad weather, enriching the ecological diversity of the area. The swimming pool incorporates perforated walls, allowing for aquatic plants and animals to thrive. This feature creates a natural swimming experience, putting users in direct contact with a living environment.

Overall, the building promotes a balance between human activity and ecological integrity. The arrangement of spaces allows for natural light to flow throughout, creating inviting areas that encourage visitors to explore and engage with the surrounding forest. Gentle sounds of rustling leaves and flowing water enhance the calming atmosphere, making the experience of being in nature accessible and enjoyable.

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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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