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Timber Retreat Elevated with Cross-Laminated Panels in a Scenic Glade

Author:
Robert Granstam
Timber Retreat Elevated with Cross-Laminated Panels in a Scenic Glade

Project in-detail

Elevated above the landscape, the retreat utilizes cross-laminated panels and local radiata pine to create a tranquil space for meditation within a north-facing glade.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure minimizes land impact while incorporating traditional Maori design.
02
Large front openings symbolize future opportunities, contrasting with smaller rear windows for introspection.
03
Constructed primarily from local radiata pine to enhance ecological sustainability.
04
Cross-laminated timber provides structural integrity and efficient construction methods.
05
Perforated timber porch invites engagement with the surrounding natural environment.

The setting is a beautiful north-facing glade, designed for quiet reflection and meditation. The structure combines modern design with traditional Maori influences. It features a geometric form and a pergola porch, creating a close relationship with the surrounding landscape and offering a peaceful space for those who seek it. Called "Pātaka - Storage of Thoughts," this structure encourages connection with both nature and culture.

Design Concept
Merging the human experience with the natural world is central to the design. The front of the building is open, decorated with large windows that provide light and allow views, representing future possibilities. The back is more closed off, inviting moments of thought and stillness. This arrangement invites visitors to experience the contrast between looking forward and reflecting on the past.

Spatial Organization
The layout of the building allows for different experiences based on the time of day. The design encourages both personal moments and group gatherings, letting people choose how they interact with the environment. Elevating the structure reduces its impact on the landscape, similar to the elevated storage buildings of traditional Maori culture. This ensures that the building feels connected to its surroundings while maintaining a respectful distance.

Materiality
Sustainability is a key focus, as seen in the choice of materials. Local radiata pine is used for essential components like studs, paneling, and flooring. Cross-laminated timber is included in the design for its strength and construction benefits. The exterior features thermally modified timber, chosen for durability and its environmentally friendly qualities.

Details of Engagement
The design incorporates various window sizes and placements, creating unique views of the landscape. This thoughtful approach fills the interior with natural light and frames the surrounding scenery beautifully. The porch made from perforated timber serves as a welcoming entry point, leading visitors from the contemplative interior to the open outdoors, blending seamlessly with the nature that envelops it.

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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
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