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Timber Habitability Merged with Renewable Energy in a Hexagonal Mountain Retreat

Author:
Manolis Santorinaios
Timber Habitability Merged with Renewable Energy in a Hexagonal Mountain Retreat
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Utilizing treated wood and a hexagonal form, this mountain retreat incorporates renewable energy systems while providing a functional space for communal living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a hexagonal footprint to maximize space and natural light.
02
Incorporates treated wood for structural integrity and environmental resistance.
03
Features a gravity-fed water system for efficient resource management.
04
Integrates renewable energy technologies with a small wind turbine.
05
Designed for modular expansion to adapt to changing community needs.

## Overview
Located in a mountainous landscape reminiscent of the Himalayan region, the Hexagon Project focuses on creating sustainable and adaptable architectural solutions that integrate with the natural environment. The design ethos is rooted in harmonizing human habitation with nature, drawing inspiration from the hexagonal geometry of snowflakes. This initiative seeks to create structures that minimize environmental impact while providing functional and aesthetically pleasing shelter.

### Spatial Strategy
The architectural layout is centered on a hexagonal footprint, optimizing space utilization and promoting natural light. Each unit spans approximately 37 square meters, divided into two levels: the lower level accommodates social activities, such as cooking and gathering, while the upper level contains sleeping spaces featuring bunk beds. The design allows for modular growth by enabling multiple units to connect seamlessly, facilitating increased visitor capacity without compromising the integrity of the site.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
Material choices reflect a commitment to sustainability and environmental resilience. The primary structural material is treated wood, selected for its renewable properties and thermal insulation capabilities, minimizing moisture retention. Copper roofing ensures durability and weather resistance, while mineral wool insulation enhances energy efficiency in cold climates. A reinforced concrete base provides stability on uneven terrain, accommodating harsh weather conditions. Additionally, the project incorporates water management systems that utilize melting snow, gravity-fed plumbing, and renewable energy sources, such as a small wind turbine for electrical needs.

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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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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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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