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Black Wood Cabin with Exposed Concrete Sanctuary

Authors:
Mark Chalhoub, Lejla Sejdinovic, Niyousha Ahmadi Naeini
Black Wood Cabin with Exposed Concrete Sanctuary
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The cabin's black wood cladding and exposed concrete create a harmonious retreat that connects guests with the surrounding landscape while providing a private space for relaxation and rejuvenation.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin integrates a dynamic spatial organization that enhances guest experiences.
02
Black wood cladding provides a contemporary aesthetic while promoting privacy.
03
Exposed concrete elements connect the structure to its natural surroundings.
04
A dedicated in-between space fosters interaction and relaxation.
05
The design incorporates a jacuzzi for wellness and leisure in an outdoor setting.

The cabin exemplifies a retreat that prioritizes seclusion and privacy, located in a tranquil landscape perfect for romantic getaways. The design combines an understated public façade with a rich spatial experience. It aims to create a deep connection between occupants, their surroundings, and their activities. The architecture merges interior and exterior elements, promoting a sense of well-being.

Spatial Arrangement

The layout of the cabin is organized into distinct areas focused on relaxation and respite. Key spaces include a bathroom measuring 8.36 m², an in-between space at 8.58 m², a kitchen of 8.54 m², a bedroom occupying 25.89 m², and a living and dining area complete with a fireplace that spans 38.66 m². Additional features consist of a deck measuring 20.16 m², a jacuzzi at 11.89 m², and a basin covering 14.72 m². This thoughtful arrangement encourages a natural flow, allowing guests to enjoy an intimate and engaging environment.

Material Selection

The choice of materials significantly influences both the look and functionality of the cabin. The exterior is clad in black wood and decking, offering a contemporary touch that matches the private setting. Exposed concrete adds a raw quality that connects the structure to its surroundings. The polished finishes enhance the aesthetics, making maintenance simpler while contributing to the overall design.

Connection to Landscape

Attention is given to blending indoor and outdoor experiences. Large openings and carefully placed views foster a strong connection to the surrounding landscape. Natural light floods the interior, providing warmth and enriching the living spaces. This connection offers guests a sense of peace, allowing them to take full advantage of their retreat.

Outdoor Amenities

The design includes outdoor features that enhance the cabin's appeal. The deck serves as a space for relaxation and contemplation, while the jacuzzi offers a place for both leisure and self-care. Each detail, from the organized layout to the inclusion of outdoor amenities, contributes to a well-rounded experience that aligns with the intention of creating a restful getaway.

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Enter an open architecture
competition now

Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

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
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge

AIA (American Institute of Architects) invites you to design affordable housing in Denver

Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

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