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Timber Retreat Constructed with Compressed Straw Bales and Sustainable Materials for Year-Round Resilience

Authors:
Kei Kaihoh, Takashi Nakamura, Giulia Chiatante
Timber Retreat Constructed with Compressed Straw Bales and Sustainable Materials for Year-Round Resilience

Project in-detail

Constructed with compressed straw bales and a wooden frame, the cabin blends seamlessly into its forest environment, creating a sustainable retreat designed for meditation and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using compressed straw bales for insulation and structural integrity.
02
Incorporates natural wood finishes to enhance warmth and connection to nature.
03
Features strategically placed skylights for optimal light and ventilation.
04
Seasonal design adaptations create varied experiences throughout the year.
05
Includes community-oriented spaces to foster social interaction among users.
The architectural project "The Door" features a minimalist cabin designed as a retreat within a forested setting. It focuses on creating a harmonious relationship between architecture and nature, leveraging simple forms to enhance the user experience. The primary goal is to provide a space for meditation and introspection, offering occupants a sanctuary that acknowledges the seasonal shifts in its surroundings.

Sustainability is a core aspect of this design. The cabin is constructed using environmentally friendly materials, including compressed straw bales for insulation, which offer effective temperature control while minimizing ecological impact. The wooden framework selected reflects local building traditions and reinforces the connection to the forest environment. The use of a metal roof contributes to durability, ensuring the structure withstands environmental challenges.

The design prioritizes natural light, employing carefully placed openings and skylights that create dynamic interactions with the indoor spaces throughout the day. Interior areas are tailored for specific functions, including spaces designated for meditation, contemplation, and utility, all while maintaining a cohesive flow. The layout encourages movement and reflection, allowing users to engage fully with their surroundings.

Architectural Simplicity and Seasonal Adaptation

What sets "The Door" apart from typical retreats is its focus on seasonal adaptations within the design. The project embodies different visual themes that respond to the changes in the environment, such as distinct characteristics for winter, spring, summer, and fall. This thoughtful approach ensures that the cabin remains relevant year-round, offering varied experiences based on the time of year.

Architectural features are intentionally minimal, allowing the users to connect with the forest rather than distract from it. For example, the design incorporates natural wood flooring and a mesh membrane to facilitate ventilation while fostering a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments. This encourages users to embrace the surrounding nature rather than retreat back into the structure.

Functional Integration and Unique Design Elements

The architectural layout integrates functionality with aesthetic simplicity. The project incorporates distinct features such as community-oriented spaces which allow occupants to gather and interact, fostering a sense of belonging within the isolation of the forest. This is in contrast to typical designs that may prioritize solitary experiences without promoting community engagement.

High-performance materials like rubber packing and water membranes are employed to ensure the structure's longevity and resilience against the elements. These choices reflect a pragmatic understanding of environmental dynamics, demonstrating how design and materiality can optimize user comfort while adhering to sustainable practices.

The project "The Door" stands as a thoughtful exploration of architecture that invites users to engage deeply with their environment. To gain deeper insights, explore elements such as architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas through the project presentation.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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