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Ventilated Retreat Embracing Nature Through Screen-Shaped Walls

Author:
Wonsun Choi
Ventilated Retreat Embracing Nature Through Screen-Shaped Walls

Project in-detail

Screen-shaped walls enhance ventilation while offering an immersive forest experience in a retreat designed for connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Built with screen-shaped walls for enhanced natural ventilation.
02
Integrates an abandoned shelter site with a forested area.
03
Design promotes deep interaction with the surrounding ecosystem.
04
Utilizes a bent A-frame structure to optimize space and aesthetics.
05
Prioritizes ecological awareness by preserving existing flora.

The new huts at the Vine Retreat Resort are located in a spacious landscape that combines the natural environment with functional design. The goal is to make the most of a smaller area while enhancing the experience for visitors. The concept links two different spaces: an old, abandoned area that was once a shelter and a location where trees have been cleared. This design approach seeks to create a harmonious relationship between the structures and their surroundings.

Spatial Integration

The layout focuses on blending empty and solid spaces, fostering a sense of connection across the site. By placing the huts in the forest, the design diminishes the differences between the various areas and encourages guests to engage with nature. This thoughtful placement allows visitors to appreciate the calming atmosphere of the forest while accessing essential amenities.

Ventilation Strategy

The huts incorporate screen-shaped walls that enhance airflow and respond to changing weather conditions. These walls are flexible and allow the structure to adapt to local climate needs. This ventilation strategy not only supports comfort inside but also aligns with principles of sustainability by minimizing reliance on artificial heating and cooling.

Ecological Awareness

Throughout the design, there is a strong commitment to preserving natural elements. This approach allows guests to feel connected to the environment during their stay. By respecting the existing landscape and encouraging responsible interaction with nature, the design illustrates how buildings can coexist with their setting.

A notable design detail is how the huts frame views of the forest while maintaining a sense of privacy. Positioned openings let in light and air, allowing occupants to feel part of the natural world around them.

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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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