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Timber Pods with Reed Bed System for Sustainable Retreat

Author:
Sofiia Novokreshchenova
Timber Pods with Reed Bed System for Sustainable Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed from local timber and equipped with a Reed Bed Treatment System, the design offers a self-sufficient retreat that embraces sustainability while providing a serene environment for yoga and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with timber sourced from fallen trees in the local forest.
02
Integrates a natural Reed Bed Treatment System for greywater management.
03
Features sleeping pods oriented for maximum natural light and landscape views.
04
Utilizes a photovoltaic roof for energy generation and self-sufficiency.
05
Promotes irrigation of edible plants through recycled water channels.

The Self-Sufficient Mountain Yoga Retreat Centre is situated in the tranquil landscape of Vale de Moses, designed to connect individuals with nature. It provides a space for relaxation and personal growth, focusing on sustainability and ecological responsibility. The overall design seeks to integrate sleeping pods that foster a sense of calm while achieving self-sufficiency.

Reed Bed Treatment System

A key component of the retreat is the Reed Bed Treatment System for managing greywater. This system filters wastewater from the sleeping pods using natural processes and directs it into channels along walking paths. This approach not only minimizes environmental impact but also recycles water, allowing for irrigation of local plants and enhancing the natural landscape around the retreat.

Photovoltaic Roof

The design includes a photovoltaic roof that contributes to energy efficiency. This roof generates electricity for lighting and heating, as well as providing hot water. By utilizing renewable energy, the retreat reduces its dependence on outside resources while ensuring a comfortable environment for guests.

Water Management Strategy

Water management is an important aspect of the design. Rainwater tanks are positioned near the sleeping pods to collect and store water. A system of piping connects these tanks, allowing for even distribution of the collected rainwater. This strategy promotes conservation and supports the local ecosystem, staying true to the retreat’s commitment to sustainability.

The sleeping pods are constructed from timber sourced from local fallen trees. Each pod has been designed to take full advantage of natural light and offers views of the surrounding environment. This careful placement enhances the experience of being in nature and reinforces the retreat’s focus on ecological balance.

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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

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competition now

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