Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Thatch Panels and Foldable Windows Unite in a Serene Mountain Retreat

Authors:
Ryu Inoue, Pyae phyo Kyaw, Htet aung Shine
Thatch Panels and Foldable Windows Unite in a Serene Mountain Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with thatch panels and equipped with foldable windows, the retreat emphasizes a harmonious connection to its mountainous surroundings while providing a dedicated space for meditation and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Unique pentagonal volume encourages sensory engagement throughout the space.
02
Thatch panels installed manually to minimize environmental impact.
03
Foldable windows create 360-degree views and enhance natural airflow.
04
Upper module dedicated solely to meditation practices, promoting tranquility.
05
Lower living area designed for varying levels of isolation and connection to nature.

The Bloom Hut is set in a calm rural area surrounded by mountains. It serves as a retreat aimed at relaxation and mindfulness, designed to help guests connect with nature. The design draws inspiration from the lotus flower, a symbol of personal growth and enlightenment, which informs both the structure and purpose of the space.

Conceptual Framework

The concept reflects the journey of self-discovery associated with the lotus flower, significant in yoga and Buddhism. The design embodies themes of transformation and mindfulness. It helps users navigate their own paths toward self-reflection, akin to how the lotus rises from the water.

Spatial Configuration

The structure features two distinct levels, each with specific purposes that support mindfulness practices. The upper module functions as a meditation space, complete with five foldable wooden panel windows. These windows provide a 360-degree view of the landscape and allow natural light and air to flow in, creating a peaceful environment. The lower module serves as the living area, offering various levels of privacy and connection to the outdoors.

Sustainable Practices

Sustainability plays a crucial role in the construction of the Bloom Hut. The design uses thatch panels, which are manually installed to reduce the need for heavy equipment. This approach minimizes environmental impact and ensures that any damaged panels can be easily replaced, supporting a sustainable lifecycle for the building.

Architectural Form

The Bloom Hut's shape is a pentagonal volume inspired by the five senses, providing a unique spatial experience. This configuration encourages interaction with the natural surroundings. The foldable windows enhance the functional aspects of the space and create a stronger connection between the inside and the environment outside, allowing nature to play a role in daily activities.

The Bloom Hut presents a thoughtful integration of nature and design. Its features create a setting that fosters clarity and introspection, inviting users to explore their inner selves amid the tranquility of the landscape.

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