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Thatch Roofed Cabins Anchored in Timber and Enhanced by Celestial Oculus

Authors:
Yen-Yen Teh, Michael Deeley, Maria Orbegozo, Rosie Murphy
Thatch Roofed Cabins Anchored in Timber and Enhanced by Celestial Oculus

Project in-detail

Crowning a conical timber structure, oculus openings invite natural light while thatch roofing harmonizes with the surrounding landscape, creating a serene retreat for introspection and connectivity to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Centrally positioned oculus provides 360-degree views and promotes natural ventilation.
02
Timber frame construction incorporates sustainable practices with locally sourced materials.
03
Thatch roofing complements the environment while enhancing insulation properties.
04
Flexible interior layout accommodates diverse uses from solitude to group gatherings.
05
Design draws inspiration from traditional building forms to create a contemporary aesthetic.

### Overview

The Oculus cabins are situated along the Amber Road, a historic route renowned for its picturesque landscapes and cultural significance. Designed to enhance the experience of visitors, the cabins offer a space for rest and reflection in a natural setting, fostering a connection between occupants and their environment. The design incorporates a circular opening, known as the oculus, which aligns the internal space with the cosmos, creating an opportunity for stargazing and contemplation.

### Form and Structural Strategy

The architectural form of the Oculus cabins is characterized by an organic, conical shape reminiscent of natural shell structures. This design not only contributes to the visual appeal but also enhances structural integrity and resilience against environmental conditions. The silhouette features a thatched roof, reflecting traditional building techniques while harmonizing with the surrounding wooded landscape. The timber framework supports the structure's lightweight nature and allows for innovative engineering, maintaining both stability and an eco-friendly profile.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The material palette has been carefully curated to foster a seamless relationship with the surrounding environment while ensuring durability and sustainability. Key materials include timber, utilized both for structural and interior elements to create warmth and an organic atmosphere; thatch for roofing, which provides insulation and minimizes the ecological footprint; and strategically placed glass in the oculus skylight, facilitating natural light and offering views of the night sky. Together, these materials contribute to a sustainable construction approach, ensuring the cabins withstand the test of time within their natural setting.

### Interior Configuration and User Experience

The interior layout emphasizes minimalism, comfort, and functionality, designed to enhance interaction among occupants and with the natural environment. Relaxation and gathering areas are strategically incorporated to promote social connections, while sleeping quarters provide privacy and optimal views, particularly through the skylight. The adaptable interior can accommodate various activities, from meditation to artistic endeavors, thereby enhancing its utility as a retreat. The thoughtful configuration promotes peace and reflection, aligning with the intent to create a harmonious living space amidst nature.

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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
competition now

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