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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form a Seamless Lakeside Retreat

Authors:
Victor Splash, Rina Kulevski
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form a Seamless Lakeside Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design integrates with its lakeside setting to create a functional retreat that offers a blend of modern simplicity and sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced cross-laminated timber for structural efficiency and minimal environmental impact.
02
Features charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and a distinctive aesthetic.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and views while maintaining structural integrity.
04
The pathway leading to the cabin is designed to seamlessly integrate with the natural landscape and enhance accessibility.
05
All interior spaces are designed with flexible layouts to adapt to changing user needs and activities.
The project is an architectural design for a minimalistic cabin located by a lake, integrating seamlessly with its natural surroundings. This design emphasizes simplicity in form and function, creating a space that serves as a retreat while maintaining a strong connection to the landscape. The cabin's layout and material choices highlight both aesthetic value and practicality, making it an exemplary model of modern architectural thinking.

Design Concept
The cabin's architectural approach revolves around the idea of harmonization with nature. By utilizing local materials and open spaces, the design establishes an intimate relationship with the surrounding environment. The structure features two interlocking forms with angular roofs that not only contribute to its visual interest but also optimize views of the lake and forest.

Notably, the exterior consists of a combination of wooden cladding and expansive glass windows. This duality bridges the gap between the indoors and outdoors, allowing natural light to flood the interior while providing unobstructed views. The wooden pathway leading to the cabin emphasizes accessibility while influencing the visitor's experience by integrating the journey with the landscape.

Interior Design
Inside, the layout is efficient without sacrificing comfort. The first floor accommodates communal areas, including a kitchen, dining space, and living area. This arrangement facilitates social interactions, critical for a cabin setting. The second floor is reserved for private spaces, including bedrooms that feature sloped ceilings, fostering a cozy atmosphere while maintaining sightlines to the exterior environment.

The integration of sustainable practices is evident, as the design employs energy-efficient materials that not only contribute to the structure’s performance but also reflect the modern architectural emphasis on ecological consideration. The choice of wood and concrete establishes durability, while metal cladding enhances exterior longevity and visual contrast.

Design Characteristics
The project distinguishes itself through its commitment to functionality and sustainability. It employs a design strategy that maximizes the use of space, ensuring that each area is intentional and serves multiple purposes. The large glass panels reinforce the connection to the exterior while fostering a sense of openness, rarely found in traditional cabin designs.

Overall, the project serves as an exploration of minimalist architecture, emphasizing the importance of environmental integration and user experience. The decision to utilize local materials not only supports regional economies but also respects the surrounding ecosystem.

For further insights into the details of this architectural project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, readers are encouraged to explore the complete project presentation. This will provide a deeper understanding of the design ideas and methodologies that have shaped this unique cabin by the lake.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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