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Basalt Stone Retreat with Transparent Facades Nestled in a Mountain Landscape

Basalt Stone Retreat with Transparent Facades Nestled in a Mountain Landscape
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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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