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Compact Rest Stops Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wood Shingles Along the Trans-Siberian Route

Authors:
Victoria Batten, Lovisa Thorsén
Compact Rest Stops Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wood Shingles Along the Trans-Siberian Route

Project in-detail

This architectural endeavor integrates cross-laminated timber panels and charred wood shingles to create functional rest stops along the Trans-Siberian railway, thoughtfully designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape while providing essential amenities for travelers.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The design incorporates renewable materials, specifically cross-laminated timber, to enhance structural integrity while minimizing environmental impact.
02
Charred wooden shingles are used for exterior cladding, providing natural weather resistance and a distinctive aesthetic that blends with the natural surroundings.
03
Each pit stop is modular, allowing for easy assembly and adaptation to diverse site conditions along the extensive Trans-Siberian route.
04
A bent A-frame design is employed to optimize space and support, encouraging efficient use of interior areas while maintaining visual appeal.
05
Informational kiosks are seamlessly integrated into the architecture, ensuring travelers have immediate access to local resources and travel tips.
The Trans-Siberian Pit Stops project represents a thoughtful approach to enhancing the travel experience along the renowned Trans-Siberian railway. This architectural design focuses on creating functional, efficient, and contextually relevant structures that cater to the diverse needs of travelers traversing one of the longest railway routes in the world. The primary purpose of these pit stops is to provide shelter, information, and amenities for those on their journey, fostering a sense of comfort and connection to the surrounding Siberian landscape.

At its core, the project emphasizes simplicity and utility, featuring a layout that is easy to navigate and intuitively organized. The design consists of carefully defined areas that include an entrance and information zone, a designated tourist shop, and accommodation spaces, strategically crafted to ensure a seamless experience for travelers. The entrance serves as an inviting welcome point, equipped with maps and local information, guiding visitors as they embark on their exploration. Adjacent to this area, the tourist shop offers essential travel items and souvenirs, reinforcing the notion of a supportive travel ecosystem.

Within the accommodation space, travelers find a restful environment diminished of distractions, designed for short stays that promote relaxation before continuing their journey. Each of these spaces is not only functional but also harmonizes with the principles of modern architectural design, embracing an inviting aesthetic that welcomes weary travelers with a sense of warmth and familiarity.

Material selection plays a pivotal role in defining the architecture of the project. The use of concrete as the primary structural material ensures durability and resilience against the elements, reflecting the rugged nature of the Siberian landscape. This choice not only provides a robust framework but also anchors the buildings within their natural surroundings. Complementing the concrete are thoughtfully incorporated wooden elements, which introduce warmth and a tactile quality that contrasts effectively with the more austere properties of concrete. The inclusion of glass in key areas allows for abundant natural light, creating visual connections between the interior space and the vast outdoor environment, thus cultivating an experience that is both immersive and inspiring.

The design of the Trans-Siberian Pit Stops moves beyond simply providing shelter; it embodies a philosophy of place-making that recognizes the cultural and environmental context of the train route. Each structure can be adapted to fit its specific site, ensuring compatibility with the local landscape and geology. This contextual sensitivity enhances the overall experience for travelers, whose journeys are not solely about travel from point A to point B, but also about engaging with the history and beauty of the surrounding wilderness.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project, as the architects successfully balance functionality with aesthetics. The non-hierarchical layout provides flexibility for the spaces, allowing adaptability to various site conditions encountered along the railway. Furthermore, the design encourages interaction between travelers and the site, promoting a sense of community and dialogue in what might otherwise be a transient stop.

By prioritizing the essential needs of travelers while integrating with the natural setting, the Trans-Siberian Pit Stops project serves as a model of thoughtful architectural design. Its ability to resonate with passersby fosters a deeper appreciation for the journey itself, making these pit stops much more than mere facilities. With their careful consideration of context and user experience, these structures invite travelers to pause, reflect, and engage with both their surroundings and fellow adventurers.

Readers interested in exploring the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that inform this project are encouraged to delve deeper into the presentation for further insights. This exploration will provide a richer understanding of how the project creatively addresses the demands of travel through architectural innovation.
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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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