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Timber Pods Enveloped in Natural Greenery Along Lakeside Retreat

Author:
Zoran Zivanovic
Timber Pods Enveloped in Natural Greenery Along Lakeside Retreat

Project in-detail

Timber Pods situated along the edge of Lake Bezdibene incorporate a raised walkway and sustainable materials, creating a serene environment for individual retreats focused on nature and self-reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Timber Pods are constructed with sustainably sourced hand-hewn timber.
02
The design incorporates a raised walkway that preserves the natural forest ground.
03
Each Pod features an elliptical footprint for optimal use of space.
04
Protection layers allow for airflow in warmer weather and insulation in cooler conditions.
05
The Entry Pod includes essential amenities accessed through weatherproof zipped doors.

The design around Lake Bezdibene includes a series of residential Pods placed on the edge of the lake to create a calm and peaceful environment. The location was chosen to provide quiet views while minimizing disruption to the existing forest. The concept emphasizes a connection with nature, making the Pods suitable for individuals looking to retreat into a more tranquil setting and engage in self-reflection.

Design Integration

Connectivity is a key aspect of the design. A raised timber walkway links the Pods to the nearby Ozolini Household. This pathway enhances safety for pedestrians while protecting the natural ground of the forest. By encouraging movement between the spaces, the design promotes interaction among users and fosters a sense of community within the site.

Functional Characteristics

The architecture focuses on themes of friendship and simplicity, creating cozy spaces that facilitate personal reflection. Each Pod is designed for short stays, offering comfortable accommodation for four to five days. The interior layout includes different zones for activities such as meditation and relaxation. This variety enhances the experience for both individuals and groups.

Material Usage

The project uses materials that reflect its sustainability goals. The Pods feature sustainably sourced, hand-hewn timber for both external and internal surfaces. This choice supports environmental responsibility and provides durability. The outer canvas shell is attached to a lightweight steel frame, allowing easy maintenance and adaptations as needed.

Design Detailing

The design includes protective layers that help manage temperature. These air-separated layers allow for ventilation during warm weather and provide insulation when it gets cold. An active fireplace supplies heat during cooler seasons, and natural cross-ventilation ensures comfort year-round. The Entry Pod holds essential facilities like a toilet, vanity, and shower, accessed through weatherproof canvas zipped doors that connect to the living areas.

Each Pod has an elliptical shape, accommodating spaces for sleeping, reflection, and recreation. This thoughtful design invites users to engage with the natural surroundings, creating a balanced environment that encourages relaxation and connection with nature.

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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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