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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Embrace Nature in a Modern Retreat

Author:
Motienko Yuriy
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Embrace Nature in a Modern Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the cabins are designed to blend into their forested surroundings while providing sustainable lodging for trekking enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and resistance to weather conditions.
02
Cross-laminated timber construction enables efficient assembly and structural integrity.
03
The bent A-frame design aids in snow shedding and maximizes interior space.
04
Modular layout allows for flexible reconfiguration across diverse terrains.
05
Strategically placed glazing provides panoramic views while maintaining privacy.

The Amber Road Trekking Cabins project is an architectural intervention designed to provide comfortable lodging for trekking enthusiasts within a natural landscape. These modular cabins are strategically located to enhance outdoor experiences while maintaining a low environmental impact. Each cabin serves a dual purpose: to provide shelter and to foster a connection with nature. The project emphasizes sustainability through thoughtful material selection and design, ensuring that both functionality and aesthetics align with natural surroundings.

Design Elements and Functionality

The project consists of three primary structures: two living cabins and a dining cabin, integrated harmoniously into the landscape. Each living cabin measures approximately 8.1 square meters, while the dining cabin covers around 10.3 square meters. This layout balances private and communal spaces, allowing for a social environment without compromising individual privacy. Additionally, features such as terraces and outdoor barbecue areas encourage outdoor living and engagement with the surrounding environment.

The selection of materials is crucial to the project’s success. Structural timber, particularly pine, is used for its aesthetic qualities and availability. Charred wood, applied through the YAKISUGI technique, not only offers a visually appealing exterior but also enhances durability and weather resistance. Natural insulation from Steico-flex ensures energy efficiency, addressing modern sustainable design requirements. A local stone chimney serves as both a functional feature and a design accent, linking the cabins to traditional building practices.

Sustainable and Modular Design

A defining characteristic of the Amber Road Trekking Cabins is the focus on modularity. The design allows for easy assembly and disassembly, making it adaptable to various terrains. This approach minimizes site disruption and provides flexibility in reconfiguring the layout as needed. The steeply pitched roofs contribute to effective snow shedding, enhancing the buildings' functionality in a diverse climatic setting.

Outdoor views are maximized through strategically placed glazing, allowing natural light to permeate the interiors while connecting guests to the natural surroundings. This design fosters a sense of immersion in the environment, aligning with the project's goal of encouraging outdoor exploration.

The project stands out due to its integration of contemporary architecture with traditional materials and techniques. By employing a modular design that is sensitive to the environment, the Amber Road Trekking Cabins offer a practical solution that meets the needs of modern occupants while respecting the natural landscape.

Explore the project presentation for comprehensive insights into architectural plans, sections, and designs. Understanding the architectural ideas underpinning the Amber Road Trekking Cabins will provide deeper appreciation for its thoughtful execution and innovative solutions within the field of architecture.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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