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Basalt Stone Retreat With Transparent Facades Nestled in a Mountain Landscape

Author:
Cashifath Mustapha
Basalt Stone Retreat With Transparent Facades Nestled in a Mountain Landscape

Project in-detail

Crafted from local basalt stone and enhanced by expansive glass facades, the design integrates seamlessly with its mountainous surroundings to serve as a multifunctional retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted primarily from locally sourced basalt stone for durability and aesthetic cohesion with the environment.
02
Incorporates translucent polycarbonate panels to balance light entry and maintain privacy.
03
Features a circular circulation design to enhance accessibility and social interaction among users.
04
Open-plan layout strategically positioned to maximize panoramic mountain views and natural light.
05
Includes dedicated storage areas for winter sports equipment, tailored for its seasonal function.

# Architectural Design Report: Light Cabin

## Overview
Situated in a snowy mountainous region, Light Cabin is designed to function as a retreat that balances practical use with aesthetic clarity and environmental sensitivity. The project emphasizes a thoughtful integration with the local landscape by utilizing regional materials and architectural traditions while incorporating contemporary design principles. The intent is to create a space that fosters comfort and connection to the surrounding environment.

## Spatial Configuration
The spatial organization prioritizes efficiency and comfort, with a ground floor that includes interconnected living areas, a kitchen, and storage spaces designed for social interaction. An open-plan layout facilitates gatherings, while the first floor accommodates semi-enclosed private areas that enhance privacy without sacrificing the overall design ethos of transparency. A circular circulation pattern is implemented, promoting ease of movement and encouraging engagement among users.

## Material Composition
The material palette contributes to both the functional and aesthetic aspects of the cabin. The exterior cladding uses basalt stone, a local material, providing durability and a rugged visual appeal that harmonizes with the landscape. Interior areas are finished with plaster, offering a clean and modern texture, complemented by oak wood accents that enhance warmth. Large floor-to-ceiling windows facilitate natural light penetration and reveal expansive views, while translucent polycarbonate elements on the upper levels balance privacy with illumination. The integration of these materials underscores the design's commitment to sustainability and contextual relevance.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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