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Charred Timber Cabin Integrating Rainwater Collection in a Forest Retreat

Author:
Ioana Costescu
Charred Timber Cabin Integrating Rainwater Collection in a Forest Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred timber and designed for rainwater collection, the cabin stands as a tranquil retreat that fosters contemplation and self-discovery within its forest setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed from charred timber to blend with the forest environment.
02
Features a rainwater collection system with multiple filtration stages.
03
Includes a meditation room with glazed walls for immersive nature views.
04
Elevated on six posts to adapt to varying terrain conditions.
05
Designed with a large northern opening to maximize natural light.

The cabin is located in a quiet forest and serves as a refuge for personal exploration and meditation. The design emphasizes a close relationship with nature and reflects elements of traditional Latvian architecture. It offers shelter while creating a space that encourages individual reflection and connection to the surrounding environment.

Spatial Configuration

Inside, the cabin is organized into two main areas. The living space includes necessary features like a bed, kitchenette, and places for creative activities. A large opening on the northern side allows natural light to enter, creating a welcoming atmosphere that supports daily activities.

In contrast, the meditation room is designed to minimize distractions. It is a simple space built for contemplation. With glazed walls and a skylight, it invites the outside environment inside, allowing users to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of nature.

Materiality and Structure

The cabin's exterior uses charred timber cladding, which helps it blend with the forest while providing protection against weathering. The roof is dark and built for low maintenance, reinforcing the cabin's commitment to sustainability.

The structure follows a post and beam design made from local timber, emphasizing efficient material use. Elevated on six posts, the cabin adjusts to different terrain, respecting the ecological conditions of the site.

Sustainability Features

An important aspect of the design is the rainwater collection system. This system includes screening and pre-filtration processes to maintain clean water. It uses gravity and an ultrafiltration membrane to deliver safe drinking water within the cabin.

The skylight in the meditation room is a key design feature. It captures light in various patterns throughout the day. This simple but effective detail deepens the connection between the occupant and the changing natural surroundings, highlighting the passage of time in a gentle, engaging way.

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

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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

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