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Charred Wooden Shingles and Eco-Ply Panels in an Intimate Retreat Setting

Authors:
Seth Trocio, Chris Gandhi, William Creighton
Charred Wooden Shingles and Eco-Ply Panels in an Intimate Retreat Setting
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Constructed with charred wooden shingles and eco-ply panels, the cabin offers an intimate retreat that seamlessly integrates sustainable materials with its natural surroundings for a focused escape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Utilizes eco-ply panels to promote sustainability and reduce environmental impact.
03
Features large glass walls to create seamless connections with the surrounding landscape.
04
Incorporates a bent A-frame design that optimizes structural stability and aesthetics.
05
Designed specifically for intimate living, emphasizing privacy without sacrificing openness.

The Romantic Cabin for Two is an architectural project located in Waitakaruru, Hauraki, New Zealand. Designed as a retreat, the cabin offers a space for individuals to reconnect with nature while promoting intimacy. The architecture features a balance between indoor spaces and the surrounding environment, aiming to create an immersive experience for its occupants.

The cabin is designed primarily as a getaway for couples, focusing on both functionality and aesthetic appeal. It combines essential living functions with a comforting atmosphere, establishing a sense of solitude and tranquility. Key areas within the cabin include an open-plan living space, segregated sleeping quarters, and multi-functional zones that allow for both relaxation and efficient use of space. Large glass panels maximize natural light and integrate indoor and outdoor living, encouraging engagement with the external landscape.

Sustainable design principles are a prominent feature of the Romantic Cabin for Two. The project utilizes materials that minimize environmental impact while maximizing energy efficiency. The roofing incorporates solar panels, and the choice of natural timber cladding reinforces a commitment to sustainability. This approach not only reduces reliance on external energy sources but also enhances the visual connection to the natural surroundings.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the standout elements of this project is its careful consideration of spatial organization. The cabin's layout is carefully crafted to facilitate intimacy without compromising privacy. Open areas promote social interaction, while distinct sleeping quarters offer individuals a personal retreat. This intentional spatial division is rarely found in similar projects, which typically favor open spaces at the expense of privacy.

The integration of large glass panels is another unique aspect that sets this cabin apart. By creating expansive views that foster a connection with the outdoors, the design effectively blurs the lines between inside and outside. This element encourages occupants to experience the changing environment, whether through daylight or the night sky, enhancing the overall ambiance of the space.

Building Materials and Sustainability

The materials selected for the Romantic Cabin for Two reflect a thoughtful approach to sustainability and local context. The use of Eco-ply for wall and floor linings, alongside corrugated iron roofing and natural timber cladding, exemplifies a combination of durability and aesthetic compatibility with the surrounding landscape. These choices contribute to the cabin’s overall resilience and visual harmony with its environment.

Additionally, the cabin features high-quality stainless steel appliances, ceramic tiles, and steel structural elements that support both functionality and design integrity. By blending modern conveniences with traditional materials, the project achieves a cohesive architectural language that appeals to contemporary sensibilities while honoring its natural surroundings.

For more details on the Romantic Cabin for Two, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, further exploration of the design presentation is recommended. This will provide insightful information into the project’s innovative architectural ideas and clarify the unique approaches that make it a notable example in today’s architectural landscape.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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