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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

Project in-detail

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.
The Amber Road Trekking Cabins is an architectural project designed to provide a functional retreat for trekkers along the Baltic Sea coastline. This project aims to facilitate outdoor recreation while fostering a connection with the natural environment. The cabins serve as a refuge where users can relax and recuperate after their trekking activities.

The design integrates with the surrounding landscape, utilizing natural materials that align with the local context. By emphasizing sustainability, the project reflects thoughtful architectural practices while responding to the practical needs of its users.

Material Selection and Sustainability

The Amber Road Trekking Cabins employ a variety of carefully chosen materials that enhance both performance and aesthetic quality. The roofs are constructed from sustainable marine-grade plywood finished with linseed oil and natural pigments, resembling traditional regional architecture. The structural frames utilize European pine sourced from managed forests, ensuring minimal impact on the environment. Walls consist of radial cut sustainable spruce paired with compressed resin-impregnated straw insulation, improving thermal efficiency.

The flooring features larch plywood integrated with similar insulation materials, maintaining a cohesive aesthetic throughout the interior spaces. Large windows framed in solid balsa wood allow for ample natural light and views of the landscape, reinforcing the connection between the inside and outside.

Innovative Architectural Features

Distinctive characteristics of the cabins set this project apart from others within the realm of trekking accommodations. The design employs lightweight prefabrication methods that facilitate efficient transportation and assembly, optimizing construction processes without heavy machinery. This approach highlights a commitment to environmentally responsible architecture.

The internal organization prioritizes functionality, resulting in open spaces that allow for both communal and private interactions. The tall gabled roofs mirror the height of surrounding trees, enabling the design to blend with the natural elements. Unique window designs, elevated for panoramic views, leverage natural ventilation while enhancing user experience.

The Amber Road Trekking Cabins represent a model for integrating architecture with nature. Through intelligent design choices, the project demonstrates how sustainable practices can be seamlessly integrated into functional living spaces. Readers interested in architectural plans, architectural designs, and architectural sections are encouraged to explore the project presentation for more detailed insights into its design and structure.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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