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Cork Insulated Cabin with Rebar Facade in Natural Landscape

Author:
Charles Beckendorf
Cork Insulated Cabin with Rebar Facade in Natural Landscape
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Constructed with a facade of recycled rebar and insulated with natural cork, this compact cabin maximizes flexibility and connection to its landscape, serving as a multifunctional living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a facade of recycled number four rebar.
02
Insulated using two inches of natural expanded cork boardstock.
03
Features a movable platform for versatile use of space.
04
Sits on a precast concrete base that houses all building systems.
05
Incorporates three solar panels to generate renewable energy.

The prefabricated cabin offers an interesting exploration of space and flexibility in a compact design. Set within a natural landscape, the structure emphasizes the integration of living spaces and necessary services using a unique architectural approach. Comparing the cabin to a brick, the design centers on the idea that the outer shell supports essential functions while allowing the inner spaces to define various living areas. It moves away from common residential layouts, focusing instead on a modular structure that can accommodate different functions within a limited area.

Design Concept

At its core, the design enables a shift in living spaces based on the occupants' needs. A movable platform within the cabin facilitates this flexibility, allowing the main area to be adjusted for dining, sleeping, or relaxation. This adaptability promotes an illusion of spaciousness, despite the cabin's overall volume being about fifteen square meters, with the main living area measuring just over six square meters.

Materiality

A variety of materials are chosen to support both sustainability and practicality. The facade uses recycled number four rebar arranged in random lengths, showcasing an environmentally minded approach. Insulation comes from two inches of natural expanded cork boardstock, which enhances energy efficiency and comfort. To maintain structural integrity, standard wood stud framing with two by six studs is used, balancing durability and cost.

Interior Finishes

Inside, solid birch plywood with a natural finish creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere that blends well with the environment. The cabin sits on a precast concrete base that houses all vital building systems, allowing for straightforward installation. Additionally, wood window systems fitted with double-pane insulated glass units provide natural light and ventilation while improving thermal performance.

Functional Features

Several functional elements enhance the experience within the cabin. The adjustable platform rests on a steel frame and has a solid wood top, allowing for easy changes in use. A tailored shading system responds to different sun positions, improving comfort throughout the day. Furthermore, a wood skylight lets daylight in, deepening the connection between the interior and the surrounding landscape, enhancing the overall experience.

The cabin also incorporates three solar panels that produce nine hundred sixty watts of electricity, minimizing reliance on conventional power. This focus on renewable energy presents a contemporary approach to residential design, addressing essential needs like adaptability, efficiency, and environmental stewardship.

The structure invites interaction with nature, allowing expansive views from its carefully crafted interiors. Its design promotes an experience that links indoor comfort with the outdoor environment, creating a harmonious relationship between human habitation and the natural world.

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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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Competition organisers

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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