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Charred Wooden Shingles and Wind Energy Integration in Sustainable Trekking Cabins

Author:
Jelena Koneva
Charred Wooden Shingles and Wind Energy Integration in Sustainable Trekking Cabins

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and a wind energy system, these trekking cabins provide sustainable accommodation harmonized with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins feature a green roof to enhance insulation and support local biodiversity.
02
Incorporate a wind energy system for sustainable power generation on-site.
03
Interiors designed with multifunctional bunk beds and communal spaces for optimized use.
04
Constructed using charred wooden shingles for fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
05
Utilize cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and quick assembly.

## Overview
The Amber Road Trekking Cabins are located in a forested area, designed to facilitate engagement with the surrounding environment while considering modern sustainability practices. The project blends traditional log house architecture with contemporary elements to enhance functionality and aesthetic appeal, prioritizing an immersive outdoor experience.

## Architectural Configuration
The cabins feature a distinctive pent roof designed to support an extensive green roof system. This architectural choice enhances insulation, encourages biodiversity, and integrates the structure with the landscape. The roofline extends to allow ample natural light into the living spaces while providing shelter for outdoor areas, promoting a cohesive relationship between indoor environments and nature.

## Materiality and Sustainability
The selection of materials emphasizes both durability and ecological responsibility. The primary construction material, logs, offers natural aesthetics and structural integrity. Glass panels are strategically incorporated to maximize natural light and views, creating a sense of openness. Timber elements, along with optional brick fireplaces, enhance warmth and comfort within the interiors. Outdoor areas utilize gravel to facilitate drainage while maintaining a natural appearance. A 300-watt wind generator underscores the commitment to renewable energy, complementing features like rainwater harvesting systems. The extensive green roof not only bolsters energy efficiency but also supports local flora and fauna, further intertwining the cabins with their ecosystem.

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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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