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Amber-Hued Shelters Built with Marine Plywood and Straw Insulation for Coastal Retreats

Authors:
Rachael Proksch, Geoff Ferris-smith, Kym Mcpherson, Tom Livaja
Amber-Hued Shelters Built with Marine Plywood and Straw Insulation for Coastal Retreats
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Constructed with marine plywood and straw insulation, the amber-hued cabins provide a sustainable retreat that seamlessly blends with the coastal landscape for trekkers seeking respite.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins feature marine plywood roofs finished with natural pigments for a seamless integration into the landscape.
02
Walls utilize radial cut spruce boards paired with compressed straw insulation for enhanced energy efficiency.
03
Large panoramic windows framed in balsa wood optimize natural ventilation and views of the coastal environment.
04
Design incorporates lightweight prefabrication techniques for efficient assembly without heavy machinery.
05
Amber-colored finishes reflect local cultural aesthetics while promoting harmony with the surrounding nature.

### Overview

Located along the Baltic Sea coastline, the Amber Road Trekking Cabins are designed to provide a retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. This project integrates traditional architectural aesthetics with modern design principles while prioritizing sustainability. The design establishes a strong relationship between the built environment and its natural surroundings, facilitating relaxation and rejuvenation for its users.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The architectural approach emphasizes the use of sustainable materials that enhance both aesthetic and functional performance. The roof is made from marine-grade plywood finished with linseed oil and natural pigments, reflecting the region's architectural heritage, while incorporating compressed resin-impregnated straw insulation for thermal efficiency. Structural frames utilize European pine sourced from plantation-grown forests, connected through European oak dowels, demonstrating a commitment to minimal environmental impact.

Wall assemblies feature radial cut sustainable spruce boards layered with insulation and finished with birch plywood, contributing to energy efficiency and visual warmth. The flooring integrates larch plywood with similar insulating qualities, maintaining a natural aesthetic. Innovative window frames constructed from solid balsa wood are treated with natural resins and include polycarbonate sheeting for improved ventilation. Each chosen material serves to create a cohesive design philosophy focused on aesthetics and sustainability.

### Spatial Organization and User Interaction

Attention to spatial organization facilitates a functional and inviting environment. The interior layout promotes interaction, featuring open areas that encourage social engagement alongside spaces designed for solitude. Large windows frame views of the Baltic Sea, allowing for ample natural light and fostering a strong connection to the surrounding landscape. This design strategy supports both communal and individual experiences, enhancing the sense of mindfulness and tranquility.

The use of lightweight prefabricated construction methods allows for efficient assembly and transportation while minimizing the construction's environmental footprint. The cabins are conceived not only as shelters but also as self-sufficient units, reflecting a resilient approach to architecture in a remote setting.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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