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Charred Wooden Shingles Enveloping a Serene Cabin Retreat on the Waterfront

Authors:
Elliott Morgan, Zimin Lee
Charred Wooden Shingles Enveloping a Serene Cabin Retreat on the Waterfront

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and integrated into its waterfront setting, the cabin offers a contemporary retreat that prioritizes privacy and a seamless connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Craftsman-style charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic and weather-resistant qualities.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels offer structural strength while reducing environmental impact.
03
The bent A-frame design facilitates optimal interior space without compromising visual lines.
04
A dedicated outdoor shower enhances the connection between modern living and nature.
05
The cabin's footprint is carefully minimized to preserve the surrounding landscape and biodiversity.
This architectural design project presents a contemporary cabin that emphasizes a strong connection to nature through its thoughtful integration into the surrounding landscape. The cabin serves as a retreat for relaxation, characterized by functional spaces that advocate for communal living while offering privacy. Its design prioritizes views of the nearby water body, ensuring that both the interior and exterior experiences are enriched by the site's natural beauty.

The project exemplifies a balanced relationship between built form and the environment, featuring materials selected for their durability and ecological compatibility. The cabin is enveloped in corrugated metal and finished with timber elements, contributing to its contemporary aesthetic while ensuring weather resistance. The strategic orientation of the structure enhances light penetration and landscape visibility, promoting both energy efficiency and occupant well-being.

Input and Output Dynamics

The cabin's design features an open floor plan that encourages interaction among inhabitants. Key areas include a multifunctional living space that seamlessly blends with a kitchen, promoting social engagement. Large windows across the facade establish transparency, creating a visual connection to the outdoors. An out-house structure is included, providing facilities while ensuring that privacy is maintained for those using the main cabin.

Noteworthy design features include an organic path leading to the cabin entrance, which is characterized by natural materials that blend with the terrain. This pathway creates an inviting approach, framing the cabin within its setting. The use of a green roof aligns with sustainability principles, enhancing thermal performance and contributing to local biodiversity.

Unique Design Approaches

The project distinguishes itself through its thoughtful spatial arrangement and materials that reflect regional characteristics. The cabin is carefully nestled among trees to foster a sense of seclusion. The design addresses both indoor and outdoor experiences, with outdoor spaces designed to extend the living area and engage occupants with the natural environment. The outdoor shower represents a unique feature that allows for a more immersive experience of nature while incorporating essential functionality.

The integration of local materials not only reduces the environmental impact but also helps the structure blend into the existing landscape. This approach enhances the cabin's aesthetic qualities. By utilizing natural textures, the design creates a tactile experience that resonates with its context.

Exploration of the project presentation is encouraged for those interested in architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that further elaborate on the cabin's unique features and design intentions. This inquiry into the project will provide additional insights into the architectural ideas that underpin this thoughtful retreat.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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