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Thermo-Ash Walls Embracing Nature’s Tranquility in A Forest Retreat

Author:
Adrian Sempa
Thermo-Ash Walls Embracing Nature’s Tranquility in A Forest Retreat

Project in-detail

With thermo-ash walls that reflect the surrounding forest, this retreat offers an immersive experience, creating a tranquil space for meditation and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Unique integration of tree trunks within the retreat layout.
02
Utilization of thermo-ash wood for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
03
Strategic placement to minimize disruption of the natural landscape.
04
Design fosters mindfulness through dedicated meditation areas.
05
Emphasis on eco-tourism principles to promote sustainability.

"Among the Trees" is set in a forest, designed to provide a retreat that allows visitors to connect deeply with nature. The project focuses on creating spaces that highlight the beauty and importance of trees while addressing issues such as deforestation, especially relevant in regions like Cambodia. It offers a peaceful environment where guests can reflect and rejuvenate.

Design Concept
By incorporating tree trunks into the site layout, the design establishes clear connections between areas meant for gathering and those intended for rest. This thoughtful arrangement enhances the experience for visitors, serving as a constant reminder of the natural surroundings. The use of wood throughout the spaces adds to the aesthetic while promoting a tactile relationship with the environment.

Functional Layout
The retreat’s layout is carefully organized to provide both comfort and utility. The ground floor consists of essential spaces including a kitchen, toilet, shower room, bedroom, and dining area. This setup ensures that all necessary aspects of daily life are easily accessible. Meanwhile, the first floor focuses on sleeping quarters, allowing guests a quiet area for rest away from communal spaces.

Material Integration
An emphasis on sustainability is evident in the choice of materials for construction. Thermo-ash wood is selected for the walls, supporting the project's commitment to environmentally sound practices. This material not only creates a warm atmosphere but also helps to reduce ecological impact while offering durability and effective insulation.

Each hut is placed in a way that respects the natural landscape, helping it blend into its surroundings. The design encourages moments of reflection under the trees, highlighting their role as symbols of life and peace. Visitors are invited to engage with the environment, creating a connection with nature that enhances their 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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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