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Womb-Inspired Retreat with Recycled Insulation and Natural Wood Elements

Authors:
Alp eren Güler, Selen Bas, Ceren Isıl
Womb-Inspired Retreat with Recycled Insulation and Natural Wood Elements

Project in-detail

Inspired by the womb, the design integrates natural wood and a unique polyester insulator recycled from PET bottles to create a tranquil retreat that prioritizes meditation and personal reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by the womb metaphor to enhance meditation.
02
Utilizes a polyester insulator made from recycled PET bottles.
03
Features natural wood structures that blend with the surroundings.
04
Incorporates a dry toilet system to support sustainability.
05
Design prioritizes natural ventilation for improved comfort.

The design embodies a concept that focuses on natural forms and human experiences, creating a setting for meditation and reflection. Located in a peaceful environment, the structure encourages individuals to engage in personal contemplation while connecting to the landscape around it. Using the womb as a metaphor, the design influences the spatial arrangement and atmosphere, establishing a backdrop that promotes deep thought.

Concept and Spatial Organization

The layout features a large meditation area positioned prominently at the front of the structure. This central open space is surrounded by various support facilities, promoting a feeling of openness and allowing for movement. The incorporation of empty spaces is intentional, aimed at fostering an atmosphere conducive to mindfulness and calmness.

Sustainability and Functionality

A key focus of the design is its sustainable approach. Natural ventilation is integrated into the layout, ensuring airflow to maintain a comfortable internal environment without mechanical assistance. The design also includes systems for reusing gray water and a dry toilet setup, which showcase an effort to be environmentally responsible and conserve resources.

Materiality and Aesthetics

The building primarily uses natural wood for its structure, which creates a direct connection to the surrounding nature. Wrapped in a membrane of polyester fluorocarbon coating, the wooden framework gains both aesthetic value and enhanced performance. Inside, a removable glass-fiber cloth membrane allows light to filter through, creating changing effects that interact with the space.

Innovative Insulation Approach

The insulation method stands out, incorporating a polyester insulator made from recycled PET bottles. This approach not only supports sustainability but also allows for the passage of light, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the building. The careful selection of materials and design features results in a unique setting that serves as a modern retreat for personal growth.

A sloped basin in the design supports waste management, demonstrating attention to functionality and detail. This practical element adds to the overall experience while maintaining a focus on simplicity and environmental consciousness.

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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

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