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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.

## Overview

The Amber Road Trekking Cabins are positioned along scenic trekking paths, designed to provide shelter and retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. The project integrates modularity and sustainability within the natural landscape, ensuring that the structures complement rather than overshadow their surroundings. The intent is to create a residential space that emphasizes comfort while fostering a deeper connection to the outdoor environment.

### Design Layout

The site consists of three primary structures, each with a distinct purpose and a cohesive design. Cabin 1 and Cabin 2 are each approximately 8.1 square meters, strategically oriented to take advantage of natural light and views of the forest. The Dining Cabin, measuring around 10.3 square meters, serves as a communal space, promoting social interaction among guests. Additional outdoor features, including terraces and barbecue spaces, encourage an active outdoor lifestyle. The layout prioritizes accessibility between structures and centers around a communal fireplace to enhance community engagement.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The choice of materials is critical to both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the cabins. Structural wood, primarily sourced from pine, is used for its natural qualities; the interior features a light tone for warmth, while a dark, charred exterior, achieved through the YAKISUGI technique, provides durability and visual appeal. Steico-flex insulation is employed to bolster thermal efficiency, aligning with sustainability goals. A stone chimney adds traditional craftsmanship, reinforcing the connection to its natural setting while serving as a functional design element.

### Architectural Form and Modularity

The cabins are distinguished by steeply pitched roofs and angular forms, creating a modern silhouette that is both functional and visually integrated into the forest backdrop. This geometric design facilitates snow shedding during winter, enhancing the structural longevity. The modular construction allows for adaptability, enabling each unit to function independently or collectively based on the needs of guests. This approach reflects current architectural trends towards flexibility and environmental awareness, supporting various geographical applications.

Large glazing elements throughout the cabins ensure ample natural light and provide expansive views of the surrounding landscape, inviting residents to engage with nature. This focus on interaction with the environment reinforces the overall theme of outdoor connection and experiential living.

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

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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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