Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Tree Bark Clad Pods Elevated Among Maritime Pines With Straw Insulation for Sustainable Living

Authors:
Andreas Lenac, Magda Lipšinić
Tree Bark Clad Pods Elevated Among Maritime Pines With Straw Insulation for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Elevated sleeping pods clad in locally sourced tree bark and insulated with straw integrate seamlessly into the Maritime Pine forest, providing a unique retreat for self-care and wellness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated platforms provide panoramic views of the surrounding forest.
02
Tree bark cladding offers natural camouflage within the Maritime Pine trees.
03
Prefabricated modules enable efficient construction with minimal site disruption.
04
Straw insulation enhances sustainability while maintaining thermal comfort.
05
A three-level spatial arrangement promotes mindfulness and self-care activities.

General Description

Located in Vale De Moses, this residential architectural project, titled "They Have Landed," integrates seamlessly with its natural surroundings. The design comprises modular sleeping pods that appear to rest among the Maritime Pine trees, emphasizing a strong connection between architecture and nature. Each pod serves a distinct function, facilitating both relaxation and a sense of escape into the landscape.

The sleeping pods are thoughtfully organized into three levels, each serving a specific purpose. The ground floor features a space for spiritual cleansing and storage, promoting mindfulness and preparation. The first floor is dedicated to personal care, including amenities for hygiene, reinforcing the importance of well-being. The top floor functions as a sleeping area, designed to maximize views of the forest canopy and surrounding terrain.

Materials used in this project include locally sourced tree bark for facade cladding, wooden frames, steel cables, and straw insulation. This choice of materials not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also promotes sustainability and minimizes environmental impact.

Unique Design Approaches

A defining characteristic of this project is its vertical orientation, which elevates the sleeping pods above the ground. This design consideration maximizes the use of limited space while providing expansive views of the valleys and forests surrounding the site. The modular construction technique allows for adaptability to various terrains, ensuring minimal disruption to the natural environment during assembly.

The integration of large glazed areas is another significant aspect of the design. These openings allow natural light to flood the interiors, creating a connection to the outdoor environment while reducing reliance on artificial lighting. This focus on natural light and views contributes to the overall sense of well-being and enhances the residential experience.

Moreover, the architectural approach considers both functional and experiential needs. The spatial organization within the pods emphasizes self-care and personal space, which fosters a restorative atmosphere. By incorporating elements that promote mindfulness and interaction with nature, the design effectively nurtures a holistic lifestyle for occupants.

Interior and Exterior Details

The project prioritizes the use of eco-friendly materials, showcasing an approach that is both sustainable and visually appealing. The facade's tree bark cladding camouflages the structures into the surrounding landscape, while the wooden frames add warmth to the overall design. Inside, straw insulation contributes to thermal comfort without compromising environmental integrity, reinforcing the project's commitment to sustainability.

The architectural designs also highlight a narrative of integration with nature, as the sleeping pods are strategically placed to align with the natural topography. The innovative combination of form, function, and materiality establishes a unique architectural identity that distinguishes this project from other conventional residential designs.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural plans and sections, and to explore the architectural ideas further, consider reviewing the project presentation. The thoughtful design and its implications for residential architecture offer valuable insights for both current and future projects.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy