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Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Design in Sustainable Timber Cabins for Forest Retreats

Authors:
Sholan Kunjappan, Robert Fiorentino, Matthew Casaverde, Sebastian Faciolince
Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Design in Sustainable Timber Cabins for Forest Retreats

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the cabins provide a sustainable retreat experience that integrates seamlessly with the surrounding forest landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for efficient structural stability and insulation.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Cabins are strategically positioned to integrate with the natural landscape.
05
Utilizes modular construction methods to minimize environmental impact.

### Overview
The Amber Road Trekking Cabins are located along the coastline of Lahemaa National Park in Estonia. The project intends to create a retreat for adventurers seeking a connection with nature, with a design that combines functionality and aesthetics. The cabins are designed to foster both social interaction and solitude, offering spaces that cater to the diverse needs of visitors.

### Spatial Organization
The layout of the cabins effectively distinguishes between public and private areas, facilitating movement and interaction. Communal spaces are centrally positioned and feature large windows and doors that open to outdoor terraces, thus enhancing the living experience by merging interior and exterior environments. In contrast, the individual cabins are strategically placed to ensure privacy and comfort, with bathrooms conveniently located to serve these private areas without compromising personal space. This configuration promotes a sense of community while respecting the autonomy of each visitor.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The design incorporates a selection of sustainable materials that address both aesthetic and ecological considerations. The use of locally sourced wood for the exposed timber frame reduces carbon emissions, while extensive glass apertures provide natural light and views of the surrounding forest. Structural elements of steel ensure durability, complemented by stone flooring that integrates with the landscape. Composite materials used for external cladding enhance sustainability and weather resistance, supporting a commitment to environmentally responsible architecture. The structural features, including sloped roofs designed for rainwater runoff and advanced timber framing methods, further reflect innovative practices aimed at improving thermal performance and minimizing environmental impact.

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

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Competition organisers

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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