Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

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

Woven Bamboo and Thatch Retreat Embracing Sustainable Hospitality in Cambodia

Author:
Felipe Apestegui
Woven Bamboo and Thatch Retreat Embracing Sustainable Hospitality in Cambodia

Project in-detail

Constructed with locally sourced bamboo and thatch, this sustainable retreat integrates floating foundations and cross-ventilation techniques to create a harmonious accommodation experience within the Cambodian landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using floating foundations to preserve local ecology.
02
Incorporates built-in planters that enhance biodiversity.
03
Features cross-ventilation to minimize energy consumption.
04
Utilizes locally sourced bamboo and thatch for authentic materials.
05
Design emphasizes harmony with the natural landscape for guest immersion.
Serenity Huts is an architectural design project located in Cambodia, focused on creating an eco-friendly accommodation experience that resonates with the local culture. This project combines traditional Cambodian architectural elements with modern sustainable practices, aiming to offer visitors an immersive connection to the natural environment. The design functions as a retreat, providing guests with both privacy and community interaction, while promoting principles of eco-tourism.

The primary architectural components include a series of huts featuring traditional thatched roofs, woven bamboo ceiling panels, and sustainably sourced timber structures. The layout comprises sleeping areas, bathrooms, and shared spaces for communal activities, all designed to encourage fluid movement between indoor and outdoor environments. The use of natural materials such as traditional stone masonry and lightweight construction techniques contributes to the huts’ environmental sustainability and aesthetic alignment with the surrounding landscape.

The project adopts unique design approaches that distinguish it from typical eco-lodges. For instance, the integration of floating foundations minimizes soil disruption, thus preserving the local ecology. The huts are oriented to maximize natural light and ventilation, significantly reducing reliance on artificial climate control. The inclusion of built-in planters serves a dual purpose of enhancing biodiversity while also promoting organic integration within the living space.

Sustainability is a central theme of the Serenity Huts project. Passive design strategies have been employed to optimize comfort for guests. For example, cross ventilation ensures a steady airflow throughout the spaces, mitigating heat buildup during the warmer months. The structures are placed strategically to take advantage of natural shade, thereby maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures without excessive energy usage.

The architectural plans reflect thoughtful consideration of user experience, with an emphasis on blending functionality with natural beauty. Each hut is designed with a strong connection to the landscape, inviting occupants to engage with their surroundings while promoting relaxation and reflection through the use of natural scenery. This project represents a harmonious integration of architecture and nature, demonstrating how sustainable design can enhance both the aesthetic and functional aspects of tourism facilities.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas and design specifics underpinning Serenity Huts, it is recommended to review the architectural plans, architectural sections, and additional architectural designs presented as part of this project. Exploring these elements will provide further insights into the unique approaches employed in the Serenity Huts project.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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 17,249 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