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Cellulose Insulation and Horizontal Airflow in a Sustainable Retreat

Authors:
Yaoyi Fan, Gabriel Munnich
Cellulose Insulation and Horizontal Airflow in a Sustainable Retreat
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Constructed with cellulose insulation and designed for optimal horizontal airflow, the cabin highlights its sustainable features through large windows and covered decks, serving as a comfortable retreat immersed in nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with cellulose insulation for enhanced energy efficiency.
02
Features large floor-to-ceiling windows for abundant natural light.
03
Includes covered decks that serve as thermal buffers.
04
Designed with optimal horizontal airflow for improved ventilation.
05
Integrates seamlessly with the surrounding landscape for a tranquil retreat experience.

The cabin presents a modern approach to retreat living, set within a landscape that enhances interaction with nature. The design concept focuses on blending indoor and outdoor spaces, which enriches the experience of being surrounded by the natural environment. The structure functions as both a tranquil getaway and a practical home, catering to the needs of its residents.

Large Windows and Open Layout

The living room stands out with its expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that let in plenty of natural light and offer views of the outside. This feature gives the room a spacious feel and visually connects it to the natural world outside. The open layout also includes a functional galley kitchen that allows for ease of movement and encourages social gatherings, making the cabin suitable for both relaxation and interaction.

Covered Deck Extensions

An important aspect of the design is the covered deck extensions attached to both the living room and bedroom. These decks create outdoor spaces where residents can enjoy fresh air while being shielded from rain or direct sun. The sliding glass door from the bedroom connects the indoor space to the outside easily, providing a way to step outside and experience the morning light or the view of the landscape.

Sustainable Design Features

Sustainability is a major focus in the design of the cabin. The covered decks act as buffers that help keep the interior cool during the summer, reducing the need for air conditioning. In the winter, sunlight can reach the living areas, providing warmth when needed. The walls of the cabin utilize cellulose bat insulation, which is effective for maintaining temperature. Dense insulation panels further enhance this performance by minimizing heat loss.

Attention to Airflow and Ventilation

Careful placement of windows throughout the cabin supports airflow, which is important for maintaining a comfortable indoor climate. The design promotes natural ventilation, helping to keep the air fresh. A ventilated attic space in the roof supports this goal by allowing heat to escape in warmer months, contributing to overall energy efficiency while ensuring a comfortable atmosphere inside.

The cabin invites a connection with its surroundings through thoughtful design elements, which enhance the overall living experience. Features like covered decks and large windows allow residents to appreciate the outdoors while enjoying a comfortable and well-designed interior.

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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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