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Concave Soundscapes Crafted with Insulated Timber Panels in a Forest Retreat

Authors:
Farzad Golestanirad, Tania Madah Tarighat Pasand, Pooria Golestanirad, Shirin Ghorbani
Concave Soundscapes Crafted with Insulated Timber Panels in a Forest Retreat
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The concave walls engineered to enhance sound isolation and the use of insulated timber panels create a unique habitat that harmonizes with the forest environment, providing a tranquil retreat for reflection and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Concave wall design enhances acoustics by directing sound to focused points of silence.
02
Insulated timber panels provide superior thermal performance in a natural setting.
03
The structure is elevated above the forest floor, fostering ecological integration.
04
Flexible hinged walls allow for adaptive openness based on user preference.
05
Natural drainage systems are integrated to protect the cabin from moisture.

This architectural project presents a cabin designed for immersive interaction with its natural environment, situated in Lithuania. It explores innovative design principles that prioritize sound, silence, and the user’s experience of nature. The dwelling not only serves as a functional space but also as a catalyst for deeper connections between occupants and the surrounding forest.

The cabin utilizes a concave wall design which focuses on sound management by directing external noise to specific points while creating areas of silence within. This acoustical consideration is paired with flexible hinges that allow walls to pivot, enabling users to adapt the cabin's openness based on their needs. The structure is elevated above the forest floor, fostering connection with the natural ecosystem while offering a unique perspective of the landscape.

The project employs several unique design approaches that distinguish it from typical cabin constructions.

Adaptive Design and Elemental Influence
The design incorporates elements of earth, water, air, and fire, linking the cabin to natural forces in a physical and metaphysical sense. The earth element forms the foundation, ensuring stability while the water element is present in integrated drainage systems that protect the structure from moisture. Air is utilized in designing open layouts for natural ventilation, and the fire element is represented through the inclusion of a chimney, creating warmth within the space.

The cabin’s platform, set at a height, not only elevates it physically but also symbolically, encouraging a meditative relationship with nature. This elevated design invites visitors to engage with the surrounding flora and fauna, making the building an integral part of its ecosystem.

Innovative Use of Materials
The project thoughtfully selects materials that enhance both functionality and aesthetics. Transparent glass fosters a strong visual connection with the environment while insulated wood panels provide thermal performance. Steel supports ensure structural stability without overwhelming the aesthetic of the design. Operable walls equipped with user-friendly mechanisms facilitate natural light and airflow management, showcasing a commitment to user adaptation.

For those interested in architectural considerations, a detailed examination of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will reveal deeper insights into how these elements collaborate to create a cohesive and functional structure. Exploring the architectural ideas behind this project may serve to further enhance understanding of its innovative approaches, efficiency, and environmental interactivity.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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