Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Teardrop-Shaped Bamboo Structure Embracing Natural Ventilation and Cultural Narratives

Author:
Kotaro Horiuchi
Teardrop-Shaped Bamboo Structure Embracing Natural Ventilation and Cultural Narratives

Project in-detail

A teardrop-shaped structure crafted from bamboo and designed for optimal natural ventilation encapsulates the essence of local culture while serving as a space for meditation and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Teardrop shape enhances natural airflow and light exposure.
02
Constructed predominantly from locally sourced bamboo, promoting sustainability.
03
Adjustable windows provide customized ventilation and light management.
04
Interior spaces are arranged to facilitate meditation practices.
05
Design incorporates cultural symbolism of the lotus for local resonance.

The architectural project “An Indigenous Hut,” situated in Chmakar Bel Village, Phnom Vor District, Cambodia, exemplifies a cohesive blend of traditional design and modern sustainability. This project serves as a critical response to the environmental and cultural context, aiming to create a shelter that is both functional and reflective of local heritage. The huts embody a design language that encourages interaction with nature while providing a serene space for community gatherings and individual meditation.

The huts are designed with a teardrop shape, optimizing natural ventilation and sunlight exposure. This form not only enhances the overall aesthetic but also resonates with local climatic conditions. The architectural layout facilitates flexibility, allowing spaces to serve multiple functions—whether for communal activities or personal retreat.

Materiality plays a significant role in the design, with bamboo being the predominant material. Bamboo poles provide structural support, while bamboo slats enhance the aesthetic qualities and allow for airflow. Concrete is utilized for foundation stability, ensuring durability. Additionally, the design incorporates mosquito netting to provide protection from insects while maintaining a connection to the surrounding environment. The use of local materials minimizes the carbon footprint and supports traditional craftsmanship, reinforcing community ties.

The integration of adjustable windows and perforated patterns in the outer frame enhances light management and ventilation. This flexibility enables inhabitants to adjust their living conditions according to daily weather variations and personal preferences. The internal configuration is thoughtfully organized to promote activities such as meditation, with spaces arranged to encourage tranquility.

What sets this project apart is its commitment to cultural narrative woven into the architectural fabric. The design resonates with the symbolism of the lotus flower, representing purity and resilience. This cultural reference not only informs the physical design but elevates the habitation experience by fostering mindfulness and spiritual growth. The design approach emphasizes adaptability and environmental harmony, presenting a modern interpretation of indigenous practices.

In summary, “An Indigenous Hut” is a carefully considered architectural project that bridges the gap between traditional local practices and contemporary design methodologies. This initiative not only provides functional spaces for living but also enriches the cultural landscape of the community. Those interested in the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas of this project are encouraged to explore further to gain a comprehensive understanding of its nuances and innovative approaches.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy