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Charred Wooden Shingles and Angular Design Create a Tranquil Retreat for Introspection

Authors:
Aleksandre Iobidze, Irakli Khatiashvili
Charred Wooden Shingles and Angular Design Create a Tranquil Retreat for Introspection

Project in-detail

Angular forms clad in charred wooden shingles seamlessly blend with the rugged Norwegian landscape, creating a serene retreat designed for introspection and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Angular design elements mimic the natural rocky terrain to create visual harmony with the landscape.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are employed for efficient construction and sustainable material usage.
04
A unique roof overhang provides passive temperature control and protects against rain exposure.
05
Large, strategically placed windows frame picturesque views, enhancing the connection with nature.
The architectural project known as the "Cabine of Introspection" embodies a thoughtful balance between design, functionality, and the surrounding natural landscape. Located amidst a rugged terrain marked by wild vegetation and rocky outcrops, this project serves as a serene retreat aimed at fostering introspection and contemplation. It is designed to be a space where individuals can disconnect from the chaos of everyday life and reconnect with themselves, offering a tranquil environment that encourages meditation and reflection.

At the core of the design philosophy lies a commitment to harmonizing with the site's natural features. The elongated structure of the Cabine is carefully positioned to respond to the landscape's contours, creating a dialogue between the built form and the environment. This architectural approach not only emphasizes the importance of context in design but also enhances the overall aesthetic quality of the project. The building's facades are creatively articulated with angular lines and breaks that mimic the terrain, allowing the structure to blend seamlessly with its surroundings while maintaining its unique identity.

The functionality of the Cabine is central to its design. The interior is organized to facilitate a fluid transition through various spaces, encouraging a journey that culminates in an expansive area dedicated to meditation. This layout is intentional, guiding individuals from more enclosed, introspective spaces to open areas that draw in magnificent views of the surrounding landscape. Various proportions and configurations of windows are strategically employed to modulate natural light throughout the day, creating diverse atmospheres that enrich the user experience.

Materiality plays a significant role in the project, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and environmental consciousness. Key materials include wooden shingles that cover parts of the roof, wooden beams and columns that form the structural framework, as well as rockwool insulation that enhances acoustic and thermal performance. The interior spaces are finished with wooden veneer panels, promoting a warm and inviting atmosphere conducive to relaxation and introspection. Furthermore, the integration of hybrid solar panels on the roof underscores the project's sustainable ethos, providing energy while supporting the building's overall functionality without compromising its design integrity.

Unique design approaches within the Cabine's architecture further enhance its intent as a space for contemplation. The exterior form features a pronounced roof overhang, which serves dual purposes: shading the interiors during warmer months while allowing sunlight to warm the space in winter. This climate-responsive design ensures comfort throughout the year and enhances the users' connection to the cycles of nature. The facade’s angular design not only captures the play of light and shadow but also lends a dynamic quality to the building, ensuring that it evolves in appearance from different perspectives.

Through these design decisions, the Cabine of Introspection stands as a compelling example of architectural practice that prioritizes the relationship between inhabitants and their environment. By employing thoughtful strategies to marry form and function, this project successfully carves out a space that promotes mindfulness and personal reflection. For those interested in exploring architectural designs that prioritize sustainability and user experience, a closer look at the architectural plans and sections of this project will provide deeper insights into its design principles and innovative ideas. Engaging with the specifics of the Cabine’s design will enrich your understanding of contemporary architectural practices at the intersection of nature and built environments.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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