Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Arching Cedar Cabins Embracing Sustainable Design in a Natural Landscape

Authors:
Eduardo Manuel Ferreira Da Conceicao, Anna Wentritt
Arching Cedar Cabins Embracing Sustainable Design in a Natural Landscape
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Utilizing locally sourced cedar and a distinctive arch design, the retreat seamlessly integrates with the landscape to offer a sustainable haven for yoga and wellness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and views.
02
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural stability.
03
Features charred wooden shingles that promote durability and fire resistance.
04
Incorporates a greywater management system for sustainable water use.
05
Integrates terraced landscaping that supports local biodiversity and food production.

PineCone Cabin is an architectural project located in Vale de Moses, Portugal, designed primarily as a yoga retreat. This project embodies a thoughtful integration with its natural surroundings, prioritizing sustainability and a communal atmosphere. The architecture features a series of cabins configured to enhance the well-being of their users while maintaining a low environmental impact. Through a blend of modern design principles and local traditions, PineCone Cabin represents a functional space dedicated to wellness and community engagement.

Unique Design Approaches
The PineCone Cabin project employs a modular design strategy that emphasizes flexibility and adaptability. Each cabin is structurally sound, courtesy of locally sourced timber used for the framework, while their roofs are characterized by an arch design that enhances both spatial quality and structural integrity. This form also offers aesthetically pleasing lines that blend with the natural hillside. The interior of each cabin features adjustable elements that cater to various user needs, allowing spaces to transition seamlessly from meditation areas to yoga studios.

Sustainability is embedded in the project’s core, as the design incorporates a rainwater collection system and greywater treatment for irrigation, supporting the landscape surrounding the cabins. Additionally, the use of biodegradable insulation materials, such as hemp, contributes to the eco-friendliness of the construction. The inclusion of solar panels on each cabin allows for energy self-sufficiency, reflecting an innovative approach to building practices that align with contemporary environmental standards.

Architectural Integration with Landscape
The architectural strategy emphasizes its relationship with the surrounding topography in Vale de Moses. Each cabin's placement considers solar orientation to maximize natural light while respecting the contours of the land. Terraced planting around the cabins not only enhances the visual appeal but also fosters a sustainable environment that can produce food for the community. The design incorporates pathways that facilitate movement throughout the site, ensuring access to communal areas and natural features, thus further promoting a sense of connectivity and engagement.

The PineCone Cabin project serves as a model for architecture that harmonizes with its environment through innovative, sustainable design. For those interested in exploring the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs of PineCone Cabin, further investigation into this project will provide deeper insights into its unique architectural ideas.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

`
Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

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 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in