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Cantilevered Cabins Constructed With Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Wood Elements

Authors:
Shi-Yen Wu, Shang-Chi Guo
Cantilevered Cabins Constructed With Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Wood Elements

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and featuring cantilevered forms, the cabins offer a harmonious blend of environmental sensitivity and local craftsmanship while serving as a retreat for nature enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred wooden shingles that enhance durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features a cantilevered design that maximizes views while minimizing ground disturbance.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural performance and sustainability.
04
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to facilitate natural ventilation and light penetration.
05
Positioned strategically to integrate with the surrounding landscape and promote eco-tourism.
The Amber Cabin project is a series of architectural structures located in Latvia, designed to seamlessly integrate with the surrounding natural environment. This initiative reflects a commitment to sustainability and local cultural heritage, focusing on the significance of amber, a natural resin unique to the region. The project’s primary function is to provide comfortable, efficient lodging for nature enthusiasts and hikers, fostering a greater connection between residents and the landscape.

The cabins exhibit a variety of geometric forms, utilizing modular designs that allow adaptability to the terrain. Each structure is oriented to capture natural light, optimize views, and facilitate ventilation. Construction materials include wood for warmth and aesthetic appeal, glass for expansive views and light quality, and concrete for stability and durability. This thoughtful material selection not only enhances the visual harmony of the cabins with the surrounding environment but also supports the overall architectural integrity.

Sustainable Design Practices

What sets the Amber Cabin project apart is its innovative approach to sustainability. Each cabin is designed with energy efficiency in mind, incorporating features like a dual-cantilevered structure that promotes passive heating and cooling. The positioning of the cabins is strategically planned to minimize disruption to local ecosystems while maximizing exposure to natural beauty. The modular aspect caters to the varying requirements of users, accommodating diverse activities from individual retreats to group gatherings.

Cultural and Contextual Relevance

Incorporating elements of Latvian culture, particularly the historical significance of amber, adds a layer of contextual relevance to the architecture. The design utilizes forms and patterns reminiscent of amber’s organic shapes, creating a narrative connection to the locale. This design philosophy promotes not only user comfort but also a unique identity that sets the project apart from typical lodging experiences. By emphasizing local craftsmanship and sustainability, the Amber Cabin project stands as a model of responsible architecture, balancing human needs with environmental stewardship.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural intent behind the Amber Cabin project, readers are encouraged to explore detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs. These documents provide further insights into the innovative approaches taken in the project, illustrating how architectural ideas have been translated into functional, aesthetically pleasing structures.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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