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Timber Retreat Embracing Nature With Passive Ventilation

Author:
Mi seon Kwon
Timber Retreat Embracing Nature With Passive Ventilation

Project in-detail

Crafted with wood to harmonize with its surroundings, the retreat utilizes passive ventilation and natural light to create an inviting space for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted using locally sourced wood to enhance ecological sustainability.
02
Features an openable skylight for improved natural ventilation.
03
Incorporates a seating arrangement that fosters group meditation.
04
Designed to age naturally alongside the surrounding pines.
05
Utilizes halogen lighting for energy-efficient illumination.

"Weave On" is an architectural design located in New Zealand, focusing on building a strong connection between its users and the surrounding nature. As a retreat, it aims to promote wellness and encourage visitors to appreciate the local landscape. The design concept centers on addressing environmental concerns while creating a space that honors the essential qualities of nature.

Design Framework
The project emphasizes the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing users to fully engage with the natural surroundings. An openable skylight and horizontal glazing facilitate passive ventilation in the meditation space during warmer months. This design choice not only maximizes natural light but also enhances airflow, contributing to an environment suitable for relaxation and contemplation.

Material Engagement
The use of wood as a primary material reflects a connection to local traditions and the natural environment. Inspired by Portuguese timber construction techniques, the cabin is designed to age in harmony with the surrounding pines. This choice of material highlights the project’s commitment to sustainability and ecological awareness, reinforcing its relationship with the landscape.

Spatial Configuration
Seating areas are thoughtfully arranged around a central space to encourage relaxation and meditation. This layout supports social interaction while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere, making the cabin a refuge for thoughtful reflection. The arrangement of these spaces emphasizes the importance of mindfulness, inviting users to connect with nature and themselves.

Environmental Considerations
The design incorporates layers of insulation and halogen lighting to create comfortable conditions throughout the year. By considering climatic variations, the result is an adaptable space that remains inviting during both summer and winter. These details underscore the design's understanding of its environment and enhance the overall experience for users.

The cabin's thoughtful relationship with its forested setting is evident through the various design choices that enhance the visitor's connection to the landscape. Each detail serves to create a space that feels at home in nature, reinforcing its role as a tranquil retreat.

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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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