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Textured Concrete Forms Within a Natural Landscape Retreat

Author:
Octavo Hernandez
Textured Concrete Forms Within a Natural Landscape Retreat

Project in-detail

Textured concrete and organic forms create a seamless blend with the surrounding landscape, offering a retreat designed for both private solace and communal interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Textured concrete integrates with the local landscape, minimizing visual disruption.
02
Large glass openings enhance natural light and provide panoramic views of the surroundings.
03
Private spaces designed for solitude feature direct connections to nature.
04
Sustainable design includes strategic passive ventilation to reduce energy consumption.
05
The bent A-frame design promotes spacious interiors while maintaining structural integrity.
The architectural project “Between A Rock and Hard Place” demonstrates a significant integration of built environments with natural landscapes, designed to serve as a retreat for travelers. The project emphasizes user experience while exploring the relationships between spaces and nature. It comprises three main programmatic areas: Private, Semi-Public, and Public spaces, allowing it to cater to diverse needs and fostering a sense of community amongst visitors.

The design employs organic shapes that reflect natural forms, creating an aesthetic that harmonizes with the surrounding terrain. The use of durable materials such as concrete ensures structural longevity while allowing for complex geometries. Large glass openings facilitate natural light and enhance views of the landscape, establishing a continuous dialogue between outdoor and indoor environments.

Holistic Approach to Spatial Organization

This project distinguishes itself through its unique spatial organization. Each section is carefully considered to provide a balance between communal interaction and personal retreat. The Private spaces are designed for solitude, offering quiet rooms that connect directly to nature. Semi-Public areas encourage engagement and social interaction through shared amenities, while Public facilities promote larger gatherings and communal activities.

The harmonic relationship between these areas is achieved through fluid transitions and visual links, allowing for intuitive navigation and a sense of belonging among users. The architectural design fosters a natural flow between spaces, enabling occupants to experience a variety of environments throughout their stay.

Materiality and Sustainability

The choice of materials is pivotal to this project’s architectural integrity. Textured concrete forms the primary structure, selected for its resilience and adaptability to local conditions. Glass is judiciously integrated to allow light penetration and visual transparency, carefully framing views of the landscape outside. This combination mitigates the boundary between built spaces and nature, enhancing occupants' engagement with the environment.

Sustainable design principles are evident throughout the project. The orientation and design of openings promote natural ventilation and passive heating, minimizing reliance on mechanical systems. Local materials contribute to a reduced carbon footprint and help integrate the building within its context.

Exploring the richness of architectural plans, sections, and designs associated with "Between A Rock and Hard Place" will provide further insight into the project's innovative approach to architecture and its commitment to sustainability. Review the project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its architectural ideas and functional design approaches.
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Enter an open architecture
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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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