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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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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

Open architecture competitions

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Prize Monetary award
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