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Triangular Prism Retreat Emphasizing Thermal Excavation and Celestial Connections

Authors:
Talita suelen Assunção, Ana paula pavelski Mello, Tiago José Aleixo, Arthur Ribas Souza
Triangular Prism Retreat Emphasizing Thermal Excavation and Celestial Connections

Project in-detail

A triangular prism form, partially embedded in the ground, utilizes thermal excavation and celestial openings to create a tranquil retreat for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Triangular prism shape enhances both aesthetics and functionality.
02
Partially embedded design contributes to thermal stability.
03
Ceiling openings connect occupants to the cosmos.
04
Inspired by traditional Nordic architectural forms.
05
Focus on creating a tranquil environment for meditation.

The COSMOS project emphasizes the connection between people and the natural world. Set in a peaceful environment, it creates a space designed for meditation and reflection. The design is based on the idea that all living beings share a common bond at the atomic level, inviting occupants to be aware of their place in the universe. This concept shapes the architecture and informs its features throughout the space.

Excavation Strategy

An innovative excavation strategy is used to partially bury the house into the earth. This creates a stable environment while reducing the need for energy to heat or cool the space. By integrating the building into the landscape, it blends into its setting and minimizes disruption to the area. This approach highlights a respect for the natural environment.

Form and Structure

The building's form takes cues from traditional Nordic roofs, resulting in a triangular prism shape. This design stands out yet fits comfortably within the landscape. The roof extends down to the ground, allowing for effective use of light and creating a sense of shelter. This form also supports the internal organization of space, ensuring practicality and comfort.

Celestial Connection

The ceiling features openings that connect the interior with the sky. These openings let natural light pour into the space, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. They also serve as a reminder of the cosmos, enriching the experience of being present in the building. This focus on light and connection encourages a sense of calm and contemplation.

The combination of these elements results in a design that promotes mindfulness and environmental awareness. The architecture encourages reflection and connection, making it a unique space for those who use it. Interaction with nature is a core aspect, making the experience of living and meditating in this setting feel meaningful.

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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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