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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
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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.

## Project Overview

The Amber Cabin project is located in Latvia, a region noted for its distinctive amber resources and scenic landscapes. The design intent is to create a series of cabins that function both as shelters and immersive experiences, catering to hikers and nature enthusiasts. The architectural approach reflects Latvia's cultural ties to amber, serving as a narrative device that connects visitors with the local environment.

### Form and Structure

The architectural geometry of the cabins varies, incorporating quadrilateral and hexagonal forms that resonate with the organic shapes found in nature. This diversity in design allows for dynamic light interactions, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the surrounding landscape. A range of cabin types—Single, Double, and Triple—are strategically arranged to foster communal spaces while providing private accommodations. Positioned alongside the beach and near lakes, the design emphasizes site integration, encouraging occupants to engage fully with the natural setting.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The construction utilizes wood as the primary material, establishing a harmonious relationship with the surrounding environment. Glass facades have been employed to maximize natural light and facilitate a continuous dialogue between indoor and outdoor spaces, while concrete serves as a foundational element that ensures stability, particularly in challenging terrains. Energy efficiency is a fundamental aspect of the design, incorporating sustainable practices such as renewable energy systems and natural ventilation through a double-cantilevered structure. This approach not only reduces dependence on mechanical systems but also aligns with ecological sustainability objectives.

The cabins reflect cultural heritage through their design narrative while maintaining ecological sensitivity by adapting to various terrains. Interior spaces are tailored for functionality, offering areas dedicated to sleeping, social interaction, and recreation, enhancing user experience. Large glass panels provide expansive views, allowing residents to connect with the surrounding landscape and experience its shifting beauty throughout the day.

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

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