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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Wood Create a Rustic Retreat in the Wilderness

Author:
Milva Perkovich
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Wood Create a Rustic Retreat in the Wilderness

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass elements, this design seamlessly blends into the forest landscape, offering a cozy retreat that prioritizes sustainability and community living.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin features charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and aesthetic appeal while connecting to local fire prevention practices.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used for structural walls, providing superior insulation and eco-friendly benefits.
03
A bent A-frame design allows for optimal water drainage and snow load management, aligning with regional climate conditions.
04
The open-plan layout encourages social interaction, reflecting modern communal living trends while maximizing natural light.
05
Operable glass doors create a seamless indoor-outdoor experience, allowing occupants to engage with the surrounding forest landscape.
The "Cabin in the Woods" is an architectural project designed to provide a functional and comfortable retreat for visitors in the Neva Baltic region. This project represents a thoughtfully crafted response to the increasing demand for temporary lodging that harmonizes with natural landscapes. The design aims to offer a balance between human habitation and the surrounding environment, allowing guests to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the forest.

At its core, the cabin serves a dual purpose: it is both a place of shelter and an immersive experience in nature. Accommodating up to six individuals, the layout is carefully planned to incorporate zones for lounging, dining, and sleeping without sacrificing the open and inviting atmosphere. This design not only prioritizes comfort but also encourages social interaction, making it especially suitable for families or groups looking to connect with one another and their surroundings.

The spatial organization of the cabin is marked by the inclusion of a central fireplace, which acts as the focal point for communal activities. Surrounding this feature are various seating arrangements that promote relaxation and conversation among occupants. The upper level incorporates sleeping spaces accessed by a sturdy wooden ladder, showcasing an efficient use of vertical space and providing occupants with elevated views of the surrounding woodland. This clever arrangement enhances the cabin's appeal, offering an intimacy with nature that aligns with outdoor tourism ideals.

In terms of materials, the project emphasizes sustainability and local sourcing. The primary substance used is wood, which forms the structure of the walls and flooring and contributes to the cabin's overall warmth and insulation. The extensive use of glass in the upper façade enhances natural lighting and creates a seamless visual connection between the indoor and outdoor environments, allowing occupants to appreciate the forest landscape from the comfort of the cabin. Additionally, stone elements, particularly in the fireplace area, reinforce the cabin’s natural aesthetic, accentuating its integration into the setting.

A unique approach within this architectural design is its modularity. The cabin can be configured in different arrangements, allowing it to adapt to varying terrains and potentially connect with additional structures. This flexibility not only accommodates larger groups but also supports the idea of creating a cohesive community of cabins that share communal spaces for interaction, enriching the experience for all visitors.

Moreover, the responsible selection of materials and techniques in the construction reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship. By prioritizing insulation and selecting renewable resources, the design minimizes its ecological footprint, aligning with current trends in sustainable architecture. The cabin thus becomes a model for future developments in rustic tourism, demonstrating how modern architecture can accommodate contemporary needs while preserving the integrity of natural ecosystems.

The "Cabin in the Woods" merges functionality with aesthetic simplicity, resulting in a design that enhances the outdoor experience for its inhabitants. As you explore this project further, you can gain deeper insights into its architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas that underpin its meaningful connection to nature. Engaging with these elements will shed light on how thoughtful design can create spaces that respect and celebrate their surroundings.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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