Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Cedar Structures Enhancing Traveler Experiences Along Lake Baikal

Authors:
Ana Mendes, Nina Morelli
Charred Cedar Structures Enhancing Traveler Experiences Along Lake Baikal

Project in-detail

Constructed from charred cedar and local stone, these strategically placed shelters offer travelers along Lake Baikal a unique blend of comfort and cultural engagement, promoting rest and exploration in a rugged natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using the shou sugi ban technique for enhanced fire resistance.
02
Incorporates locally sourced stone to reduce environmental impact.
03
Features flexible interior spaces designed for cultural exhibitions.
04
Large glass panels promote natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
05
Strategically located to optimize access for travelers along Lake Baikal.

### Overview
The pit stops along the Trans-Siberian Railway, particularly situated around Lake Baikal, are designed to enhance the travel experience of passengers navigating this extensive route across diverse Russian landscapes. With a focus on fostering connections between travelers and the surrounding environment, the design addresses both functional and experiential aspects, promoting a dialogue with the unique natural and cultural contexts of the region.

### Architectural Strategy
The shelters feature a distinctive gabled form that minimizes wind resistance and facilitates snow shedding in winter climates. Strategically located near Lake Baikal, the design considers the geographical characteristics of a landscape often only glimpsed from the train. The use of carbonized cedar for the external cladding, employing the "shou sugi ban" technique, enhances fire resistance while reducing reliance on chemical treatments. The incorporation of double-glazed windows ensures thermal insulation and comfort throughout the seasons, while local stone serves as the foundation, linking the structures to their natural surroundings.

### Interior Configuration and User Engagement
Internally, the layout is both flexible and inviting, centered around a communal fireplace that acts as a focal point for social interaction and warmth. Amenities include a self-service café for travelers and spaces dedicated to exhibitions and local tourist information, fostering cultural exchange and understanding of the area. Expansive glass elements invite natural light and offer panoramic views of Lake Baikal, encouraging interaction with the outdoors and blurring the lines between internal and external spaces. This design not only meets the needs of travelers but also promotes an appreciation of the expansive wilderness through which they journey.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy