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Timber-Clad Retreat with Natural Ventilation and Rainwater Harvesting

Authors:
Ian Mann, Ratana Rith, Marck Sophannbunthang
Timber-Clad Retreat with Natural Ventilation and Rainwater Harvesting
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Timber-clad structures with integrated rainwater harvesting and natural ventilation create a sustainable retreat in the Cambodian landscape, providing an immersive environment for wellness and community activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Timber-clad structures blend with the natural landscape for minimal visual impact.
02
Rainwater harvesting systems provide a local source for water needs.
03
Clusters of huts are arranged around a central pavilion for community activities.
04
Design optimizes natural ventilation using prevailing winds for comfort.
05
Raised flooring reduces flooding risk and enhances airflow beneath structures.

The Cambodia Remote Hideout Huts project is located in a quiet and vibrant area of Cambodia, designed to offer a peaceful escape from the busy pace of urban life. Its main goal is to encourage a strong connection with nature. The design concept highlights simplicity and elegance, avoiding complex forms and extravagant designs. Instead, it focuses on creating an environment where guests can immerse themselves in the natural landscape.

Community-Centric Layout

The layout consists of clusters of 4 to 5 huts surrounding a central covered pavilion. This pavilion acts as a gathering place for guests, providing space for activities such as yoga, meditation, and communal meals. The cluster arrangement allows for some independence among the huts, enhancing feelings of tranquility while reducing the need for reliance on existing resort facilities.

Sustainable Design Principles

Sustainability is a key aspect of the design. The huts are strategically positioned to take full advantage of the local climate. By considering solar exposure and wind directions, the design helps maintain comfortable living conditions throughout the year. Features like reduced glazing help limit heat from the sun, and natural ventilation improves airflow within the interiors.

Material Considerations

The materials chosen for construction reflect an aim to blend with the environment. The structures are primarily clad in timber, sitting on concrete pad footings. This lightweight design complements the lush surroundings while minimizing ecological impact. Such choices allow the buildings to function well in their setting, promoting both durability and aesthetic appeal.

In addition to the structural elements, rainwater harvesting systems and solar panels are integrated into the design. These systems support the huts' water and energy needs, allowing for greater self-sufficiency while preserving the landscape's integrity. The focus on practicality and ease of living connects guests to a sense of comfort in a naturally beautiful environment.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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