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Woven Bamboo Retreat With Rainwater Management Designed for Mindful Living

Author:
Emre Cetinel
Woven Bamboo Retreat With Rainwater Management Designed for Mindful Living

Project in-detail

Crafted from woven bamboo and designed with a unique rainwater management system, the retreat harmonizes with its natural surroundings to provide a peaceful space for meditation and yoga.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from locally sourced bamboo, maximizing sustainability and minimizing environmental impact.
02
Integrates a rainwater management system that supports lush internal gardens, enhancing biodiversity.
03
Features a triangular geometry that optimizes natural ventilation and sunlight exposure throughout the day.
04
Utilizes woven bamboo panels for both structural integrity and acoustic comfort within the meditation spaces.
05
Designed with an elevated platform that offers a unique vantage point to connect with the surrounding landscape.
The Tula Hut is an architectural project that embodies a thoughtful approach to design, sustainability, and connection to nature. Situated in the serene landscapes of Cambodia, this structure serves as a hub for rest, reflection, and mindfulness, particularly suited to activities such as yoga and meditation. The concept behind the Tula Hut focuses on the balance between human habitation and the natural environment, creating a space that supports both physical comfort and mental well-being.

This project represents more than just a physical structure; it signifies an ethos of sustainable living and serves as a response to contemporary architectural challenges. The design leverages local materials, specifically bamboo, to establish a symbiotic relationship with its surroundings. Bamboo is utilized extensively throughout the hut, providing strong yet flexible structural support, as well as aesthetic appeal. The choice of material not only emphasizes the project’s commitment to eco-friendliness but also highlights the cultural relevance of bamboo in Cambodian architecture.

The Tula Hut functions effectively as a multi-purpose space. The ground level features open areas that promote recreational activities while transitioning seamlessly into an internal garden, emphasizing the indoor-outdoor connection. This arrangement is thoughtfully designed to encourage airflow and natural light, making the environment feel spacious and inviting. In contrast, the first floor is dedicated to privacy and introspection, with expansive windows that frame views of the surrounding landscape, allowing occupants to engage fully with their natural setting.

Unique design approaches enhance the overall functionality of the Tula Hut. Notably, the use of a spiral staircase creates a visual focal point while facilitating easy circulation between both levels. This design element stands as an exemplar of how architectural components can serve dual purposes—both functional and aesthetic. Furthermore, the architectural design prioritizes natural ventilation. By employing passive design techniques, the hut reduces dependence on mechanical cooling, embodying a sustainable lifestyle that respects both the environment and occupant comfort.

Additional features of the Tula Hut include sustainable drainage systems that address rainwater management. The integration of gravel and drainage components reflects an understanding of site management, further improving resilience against environmental elements such as flooding. Throughout the design process, a continuous dialogue between architecture and ecology is maintained, reinforcing the importance of sustainable practices in modern architecture.

The Tula Hut represents a forward-thinking architectural paradigm that seeks to foster a deeper connection to nature while addressing the complexities of contemporary living. Its design serves as an invitation to a more mindful way of life, enhancing the user experience through an inviting atmosphere, natural materials, and thoughtful spatial configurations. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of this project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that elucidate the careful considerations and innovative ideas that underpin the Tula Hut. This exploration will provide deeper insights into how this architectural project stands as a model for sustainable living and harmonious design.
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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
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