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Timber Retreat Embracing Olive Trees With No Glue Assembly and Terracotta Façade

Author:
Guido Strohecker
Timber Retreat Embracing Olive Trees With No Glue Assembly and Terracotta Façade

Project in-detail

Constructed with a unique no-glue methodology, this timber retreat seamlessly integrates terracotta façades and surrounding olive trees, providing a tranquil sanctuary designed for relaxation and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using a no-glue assembly technique for structural integrity.
02
Features a terracotta façade that reflects local landscape colors.
03
Incorporates floor-to-ceiling windows for optimal natural light.
04
Designed to blend seamlessly with surrounding olive trees.
05
Utilizes timber sourced from sustainable practices to minimize environmental impact.

## Project Overview
Villa VOON is situated in Portugal, designed to foster a deep connection with the surrounding olive landscape. The project focuses on sustainability and adaptability, prioritizing minimal environmental impact while providing a serene retreat for guests. The architectural design intricately aligns with the natural beauty of olive trees, utilizing innovative techniques to enhance the residential experience.

### Material Selection and Construction Method
The design integrates wood as the primary material, selected for its aesthetic qualities and sustainability. The use of terracotta cladding reflects the local landscape, while expansive glass openings facilitate natural light and visual connection with the surroundings. The construction methodology emphasizes ecological responsibility, employing a patented wooden frame system that adheres to a "no screws, no glue" principle. This approach minimizes construction waste and adheres to a commitment to environmental awareness, avoiding traditional methods that rely on plastics and adhesives.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience
The layout of Villa VOON is characterized by open areas that promote social interaction and relaxation, with strategically located guest houses surrounding communal spaces. This design fosters an engaging dynamic among visitors, with an interior palette that incorporates earthy tones in harmony with the olive grove backdrop. Floor-to-ceiling windows enrich the interior experience, drawing the landscape into the living spaces and reinforcing the overall connection with nature. The architecture also showcases versatility through multifunctional spaces that accommodate varying group sizes, enhancing the comfort and flexibility for all guests.

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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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