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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.
The Light Cabin is an architectural project designed as a retreat within a snowy mountainous environment. The cabin seeks to establish a strong connection with its natural surroundings while providing a functional living space. The key focus of the design lies in merging traditional materials with modern architectural principles, thus creating a habitat that is both practical and aesthetically harmonious.

The cabin serves multiple functions, including living quarters, storage for outdoor equipment, and spaces for leisure activities. The unique character of the project is characterized by its commitment to sustainability and integration with the landscape, demonstrating a thorough understanding of environmental context.

Materiality and Aesthetic Choices

A significant aspect of the Light Cabin is its materiality. The project predominantly employs local basalt stone for the exterior, selected for its durability and natural appearance. This choice enhances the building's robustness while allowing it to blend with the surrounding rocky terrain. Internally, plaster finishes provide a smooth contrast to the textured stone, creating a polished and inviting atmosphere. Oak wood accents throughout the interior space add warmth and a tactile quality, enhancing the comfort of the living environment.

One notable feature of the design is the extensive use of glass. Large floor-to-ceiling windows maximize natural light, offering unobstructed views of the mountainous landscape. This integration of glazing not only reinforces the transparency between indoor and outdoor spaces but also supports passive heating strategies by allowing sunlight to warm the interiors. In conjunction with translucent polycarbonate elements, the design achieves a balance between privacy and openness.

Spatial Organization and Functional Layout

The spatial organization of the Light Cabin demonstrates careful consideration of user experience. The ground floor comprises an open plan that includes a combined living and dining area, kitchen, and storage facilities. This layout facilitates social interaction while maintaining a functional flow. The design prioritizes easy movement, supporting both daily activities and group gatherings.

The first floor offers a more private realm, designed with semi-enclosed spaces that allow for solitude without completely detaching from the overall openness of the cabin. This differentiation between levels enhances the functionality, catering to various needs whether for leisure or rest.

Unique to this project is its circular circulation design, which promotes an organic movement throughout the cabin. This thoughtful approach fosters engagement among inhabitants while ensuring that spaces are easily accessible.

Exploration of Architectural Details

Architectural sections and plans reveal further depth to the Light Cabin's design. The interplay of solid and transparent materials is explored through various elevations, highlighting the transition between indoor living areas and the external environment. The rear and side elevations illustrate the deck area that expands usable outdoor living space while encouraging interaction with the natural elements.

The Light Cabin reflects a contemporary architectural approach that addresses both functionality and environmental integration. Its unique material choices, spatial organization, and circulation design distinguish it from typical retreat projects. To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design ideas, consider reviewing the comprehensive project presentation. Dive into the architectural details presented to appreciate the nuanced design that makes the Light Cabin noteworthy.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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