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Charred Pine Cladding and Cross-Laminated Timber Enhance Connectivity to Nature

Authors:
Jai Mexis, Loukas Oikonomakis, Mike Gkouliamakis
Charred Pine Cladding and Cross-Laminated Timber Enhance Connectivity to Nature
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Charred pine cladding and cross-laminated timber create a balanced living space that deeply connects occupants to nature, while maximizing comfort and sustainability in a compact cabin format.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred pine wood cladding utilizes the Yakisugi technique for enhanced durability.
02
Cross-laminated timber (CLT) enables quick prefabrication and assembly.
03
Panoramic windows provide 180-degree views to connect interior and exterior spaces.
04
An on-site grey water treatment system operates without electricity.
05
The compact design accommodates up to five occupants with efficient use of space.

The design integrates principles from yoga, focusing specifically on the tree pose to create a sense of balance and connection to nature. Located among greenery, the cabin functions as a living space that encourages harmony with the surroundings. The layout caters to comfort while highlighting sustainable living practices. Each element is thoughtfully designed to enhance the experience of its occupants while fostering an appreciation for the environment.

Materiality

The cabin's exterior features charred pine wood, which utilizes the Yakisugi technique from Japan. This unique treatment provides durability and protection from the elements while creating a visually appealing texture. Inside, cross-laminated timber (CLT) is used extensively for its structural benefits and sustainability. This choice emphasizes environmental responsibility and contributes to a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Spatial Organization

Accommodating up to five people, the cabin is carefully organized for practical living. It includes a double bed, additional loft space, and a sofa bed, allowing flexibility for different groups. The compact bathroom is designed for efficiency without compromising user comfort. Clever storage solutions are integrated throughout, ensuring a neat and organized space.

Sustainability Features

A key element is the commitment to achieving a carbon-zero footprint. The system for treating grey and black water operates without electricity, relying on natural gravitational flow. This approach minimizes environmental impact and demonstrates a commitment to sustainable practices while providing practical water management.

Natural Light and Ventilation

Large windows provide abundant natural light and breathtaking views of the landscape. This feature effectively ties the cabin's interior to its outdoor environment. The placement of these windows also allows for cross ventilation, which improves air quality throughout the space, enhancing comfort for occupants.

The panoramic views create an opportunity for residents to connect with the surrounding landscape, particularly under the stars at night, offering a tranquil atmosphere that encourages reflection and appreciation of nature.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025
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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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