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Translucent Polycarbonate Walls and Elevated Concrete Design Enhance Connection to Nature in Coastal Retreat

Author:
Simao Jorge
Translucent Polycarbonate Walls and Elevated Concrete Design Enhance Connection to Nature in Coastal Retreat

Project in-detail

Elevated concrete construction paired with translucent polycarbonate walls creates a seamless integration with the coastal landscape, providing a serene retreat focused on yoga and mindfulness practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated 60 cm above ground to preserve local flora and fauna.
02
Translucent polycarbonate walls enhance natural light while providing durability.
03
Recycled tiles from leftover concrete reduce waste and environmental impact.
04
Multifunctional spaces designed to integrate yoga and wellness practices.
05
Designed with a 45-degree orientation for optimal solar gain and light.

### Project Overview

Located near Cape Kolka, the seaside retreat facilitates a deep connection to nature while promoting wellness and mindfulness for its users. The design emphasizes minimalism and sustainability, tailored specifically for visitors interested in relaxation and yoga practices. The integration of the structure into the surrounding environment is a key consideration, reflecting both functional utility and aesthetic coherence.

### Spatial Organization

The floor plan strategically organizes multifunctional spaces, including a yoga room (28 sqm), kitchen (18 sqm), and two en-suite bedrooms (12 sqm each). Each bedroom is oriented to the north, maximizing exposure to morning sunlight and creating a vibrant atmosphere. The building's layout fosters spatial fluidity, allowing for overlapping functions and a seamless flow between spaces.

### Material and Sustainability Strategy

The selection of materials prioritizes sustainability and long-term durability. Concrete is employed for its resilient qualities, while plywood provides a warm interior finish. Recycled tiles made from leftover concrete minimize waste, and polycarbonate walls in the yoga room ensure a connection to the outdoors. Eco-friendly adhesives are utilized throughout the wooden components, adhering to sustainability objectives. Furthermore, the building is elevated 60 cm above ground to protect local flora and fauna, reinforcing its ecological considerations. The design incorporates outdoor pathways that connect users with the natural landscape, enhancing the overall experience and encouraging interaction with the environment.

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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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