Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Thermal Insulation in Adaptable Gabled Retreats

Authors:
Pavlina Machackova, Jakub Tylcer
Charred Wooden Shingles and Thermal Insulation in Adaptable Gabled Retreats

Project in-detail

Emphasizing charred wooden shingles and a lightweight timber structure, these adaptable gabled retreats provide a seamless connection to nature while offering comfortable accommodations for trekking enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabins utilize charred wooden shingles for natural weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
A lightweight timber skeleton allows for efficient assembly and minimal environmental impact.
03
Innovative foundation screws enable quick installation without traditional footings.
04
Large, strategically placed windows provide expansive views while enhancing natural light throughout the cabin.
05
The open-plan layout promotes flexibility, accommodating diverse uses for visitors.
The Amber Road Trekking Cabins exemplify a thoughtful intersection of contemporary architecture and outdoor living, showcasing a design that is both functional and harmonious with its natural environment. Located in a picturesque setting, these cabins are crafted as minimalist retreats that invite individuals to immerse themselves in nature, serving as ideal accommodations for hiking enthusiasts and those seeking a respite from urban life.

The primary function of the Amber Road Trekking Cabins is to provide comfortable and accessible shelter while promoting an active engagement with the surrounding landscape. Each cabin is designed to be lightweight and easily transportable, allowing for efficient assembly in remote locations where traditional construction methods may be impractical. This emphasis on functionality aligns seamlessly with the overarching design philosophy, which prioritizes simplicity and adaptability.

Important elements of the cabins include their distinct gabled roof structure and open-plan interiors. The exaggerated roofline is not merely an aesthetic choice; it effectively facilitates rainwater drainage while integrating the cabins into the regional architectural narrative. Internally, the cabins boast spacious layouts illuminated by generous windows that frame views of the wilderness, emphasizing a connection between inside and out. The use of natural wood finishes and a neutral color palette enhances this relationship, promoting an atmosphere of tranquility and comfort.

The material palette chosen for the Amber Road Trekking Cabins reflects both durability and sustainability. The primary materials include wooden beams, laminated wood boards, and thermal insulation foil, which combine to create a sturdy yet lightweight framework. Additionally, the application of a wood waterproofing agent ensures longevity, making the structure resilient against environmental elements. This careful selection of materials not only reinforces the project’s ecological intentions but also supports the overall aesthetic coherence with the local landscape.

One of the unique features of the Amber Road design is its duality of form. The cabins can shift between a closed, sculptural presence when unoccupied and an open, inviting space when inhabited. This versatility heightens the user experience, encouraging individuals to engage actively with their environment. Furthermore, the cabins employ innovative foundation screws that eliminate the need for traditional footings, streamlining the installation process and minimizing site disturbance.

The architectural ideas embedded within the Amber Road Trekking Cabins emphasize the importance of user interaction and environmental sustainability. By fostering a dialogue between architecture and the natural world, the design succeeds in creating spaces that encourage exploration and reflection. The project embodies a commitment to responsible building practices while remaining attuned to the needs and preferences of its users.

For anyone interested in understanding the nuances of this architectural project, a detailed exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and designs will offer deeper insights into its unique attributes and functional design strategies. Engaging with these elements can enhance comprehension of how the Amber Road Trekking Cabins effectively unite form and function in a manner that respects both the environment and the users’ experience.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy