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Triangular Skylights and Concrete Harmony in a Sustainable Retreat

Author:
Ching Chi Su
Triangular Skylights and Concrete Harmony in a Sustainable Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing triangular skylights and a concrete structure, the design seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings, creating a sustainable retreat that emphasizes both artistic expression and tranquil living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes triangular skylights for enhanced natural lighting.
02
Incorporates locally sourced materials to reduce environmental impact.
03
Features a blend of concrete and timber for structural integrity.
04
Includes an integrated art gallery to promote cultural expression.
05
Design emphasizes passive solar heating for energy efficiency.

## Overview

Located in Sanyi Township, Miaoli County, Taiwan, the Sanyi Secular Retreat is a residential project designed to integrate human habitation with the surrounding natural landscape. Spanning 310 square meters, the project seeks to create a peaceful environment that emphasizes sustainability and utilizes natural light while engaging with its contextual surroundings.

### Spatial Strategy and User Engagement

The design employs a strategic approach to spatial organization, blending functional areas with a focus on relaxation and interaction with nature. Key spaces, including an art gallery and communal living areas, are arranged to cultivate connectivity and dynamic use. The dedicated art gallery serves as both a creative workspace and a reflective area, underscoring the importance of culture within the residential framework. Additionally, service areas are discreetly positioned to maintain the aesthetic integrity of the space while supporting the operational needs of the retreat, exemplified by the thoughtful placement of utility rooms.

### Material and Environmental Considerations

The selected materials reflect a commitment to sustainability and aesthetic integration with the environment. Extensive use of concrete provides durability and an earthy texture, creating a tactile experience that connects the structure to its surroundings. Glass elements, such as triangular skylights and expansive windows, invite natural light and facilitate unobstructed views of the landscape, enhancing the interior atmosphere. Natural stone and wood elements are utilized to ground the design culturally and contextually, balancing the starkness of concrete with warmth and softness. This intentional selection of materials reinforces the retreat's commitment to ecological responsibility and respect for local building traditions.

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

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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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