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Terraced Retreat Featuring Corrugated Shelters and Natural Materials

Author:
Andrea Bassetti
Terraced Retreat Featuring Corrugated Shelters and Natural Materials

Project in-detail

Constructed with terraced landscaping and utilizing corrugated materials, the retreat offers a harmonious balance of private and communal spaces designed for reflection and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with corrugated materials to enhance durability and energy efficiency.
02
Incorporates terraced landscaping that integrates seamlessly with the natural terrain.
03
Designed with optimized space allocation for both communal and private functions.
04
Features ramps for enhanced accessibility throughout the retreat.
05
Utilizes local materials that reflect regional building traditions and aesthetics.

The Vine Retreat is a contemporary design that represents the principles of vernacular domestic architecture within a setting that respects cultural heritage and environmental harmony. The aim is to provide a peaceful space for reflection and rejuvenation. By focusing on modularity and flexibility, the retreat supports a variety of uses over time, creating a cohesive atmosphere for both individuals and groups.

Functional Areas and Circulation

At the Vine Retreat, the layout is organized into distinct functional zones. These include private spaces such as the cabin and meditation area, as well as communal areas like the studio and terrace. Careful planning of circulation routes promotes smooth movement throughout the retreat. Ramps are incorporated to improve accessibility, fostering an inviting environment. This design encourages interaction among users while also ensuring privacy in individual spaces.

Design and Spatial Organization

The ground floor layout effectively connects various functional elements through thoughtful spatial arrangement. Each zone is designed with its intended activities in mind, allowing for an efficient flow of use that enhances the retreat’s overall functionality. Openings and pathways are strategically placed to promote a connection between indoor spaces and the natural surroundings, allowing light and fresh air to enrich the user experience.

Material Selection

Material choice is key to the identity of the Vine Retreat. A variety of materials, including corrugated sheets, brick tiles, palm leaves, bamboo, wood, and concrete, are used throughout the project. This selection not only provides stability and durability but also reflects local building techniques. The textures and colors of these materials help the retreat integrate with the landscape, adding to its overall character.

The architectural details of the Vine Retreat are conveyed through thorough floor plans and sections that clarify design intentions. These technical drawings show how structural elements relate to one another and interact with the environment. A notable feature is the ramp that connects to the terraced landscape, creating a practical relationship between the building and nature. This connection invites users to engage with both the retreat and its setting, enhancing the overall experience.

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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

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competition now

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