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Copper Roofed Pods with Plywood Interiors for Sustainable Cliffside Living

Authors:
Yonatan Buchhandler, Valerio Nelli
Copper Roofed Pods with Plywood Interiors for Sustainable Cliffside Living
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Utilizing a copper roofing system and plywood interiors, these self-sufficient pods are designed to integrate into the cliffside landscape while providing sustainable living solutions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a copper roofing system for durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates plywood interiors engineered for lightweight strength and aesthetics.
03
Features an easy-to-assemble vertical structural framework for efficient construction.
04
Employs cross ventilation techniques to enhance indoor air quality and comfort.
05
Integrates solar heating and water harvesting systems for self-sufficiency.

"Sleeping Pods on a Cliff" is an architectural design aimed at creating small, self-sufficient dwellings that integrate with their natural environment. Set against a distinctive landscape, the pods are intended to provide comfortable shelter while reflecting a commitment to sustainability. The project emphasizes energy efficiency and low environmental impact through thoughtful design principles and construction methods.

Concept and Sustainability

The design focuses on promoting sustainable living through clear construction techniques that facilitate easy assembly. Achieving net zero operational and embodied carbon is a primary goal. The project also considers land use and biodiversity, creating spaces that contribute to health and well-being while respecting the landscape.

Design Elements

The design effectively balances natural light and thermal comfort. The layout allows for good airflow and includes shading systems to avoid overheating. Openings are strategically placed to maximize daylight without increasing energy use. Additionally, systems for water collection, solar energy, and heating are integrated, enhancing the self-sufficiency of each unit.

Structural Assembly

A straightforward assembly process forms the basis of this design, starting with a simple vertical structure. This framework ensures stability and ease of construction. It supports components such as the roof, bathroom, glazing, and sleeping alcove, allowing for efficient use of materials and space while maintaining architectural integrity.

Material Integration

Careful material selection is vital to the overall project. Locally sourced materials not only contribute to sustainability but also connect the pods to their surroundings. The use of a wooden vertical structure, plywood panels, and copper roofing creates a durable yet visually appealing environment. The aluminum glazing system ensures proper insulation while providing ample light.

The Sleeping Pods provide a thoughtful approach to living in harmony with the environment. Their design encourages an easy connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, reflecting principles of sustainability and efficient living through their functional arrangements and material choices.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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