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Thatched Retreat Surrounded by Nature with Flexible Pebble Floors

Authors:
Franz Oberschmid, Christopher Günther, Frederik Fandel
Thatched Retreat Surrounded by Nature with Flexible Pebble Floors
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Constructed with a thatched roof and flexible pebble floors, the retreat integrates seamlessly with the Cambodian lowlands, offering a multifunctional space for community engagement and environmental education.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a thatched roof for natural insulation.
02
Incorporates mosquito protection tailored for the local climate.
03
Flexible pebble floors enhance durability and natural aesthetics.
04
Designed to be repositioned easily in various natural contexts.
05
Fosters community engagement and environmental education initiatives.

The tent+ project offers a functional space situated in the lowlands of Cambodia, a region well known for its pepper cultivation. Designed for multiple uses, it serves as a shelter and a community space for interaction and education about the environment. The overall concept focuses on simplicity and adaptability, enabling the structure to relate to its natural surroundings while addressing issues facing both local and global ecosystems.

Architecture Concept

The design is based on the idea that small, locally generated efforts can lead to significant changes in environmental awareness. By comparing these efforts to drops of water creating an ocean, the project underscores the impact of incremental actions. The tent+ encourages users to rethink their connection to nature, providing a setting that supports reflection and engagement.

Design Adaptability

Flexible usage defines the structure’s design. It can function as a private retreat, a place for communal gatherings, or an educational site for ecological matters. This versatility enhances the user experience, enabling individuals and groups to interact with the space in various ways. The lightweight nature of the design makes it easy to move, fostering exploration of different environmental contexts.

Materiality

Materials chosen for tent+ include a thatched roof, which serves as insulation and offers protection from the weather while blending well with the landscape. Mosquito protection enhances comfort for users, addressing the needs of the local climate. Pebble stones are used for flooring, adding a robust appearance that complements the environment, while rough plank floors add authenticity and durability to the overall design.

Connection to Nature

The design emphasizes a strong link to the natural environment. With thoughtful integration into the landscape, it allows users to experience the beauty of the site and its ecological significance. The architecture fosters a sense of connection and facilitates engagement with both nature and community, creating a space that invites people to reflect and interact.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

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