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Cross-Laminated Timber Cabins Embracing Nature Through Circular Designs and Sustainable Materials

Authors:
Niclas Reinke, Matteo Pelagatti
Cross-Laminated Timber Cabins Embracing Nature Through Circular Designs and Sustainable Materials

Project in-detail

Constructed with cross-laminated timber and designed with circular openings to harmonize with the surrounding forest, these cabins create a focused environment for meditation and introspection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced stability and insulation.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features circular windows that optimize natural light while framing forest views.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to harmonize with the surrounding topography.
05
Emphasizes a minimal ecological footprint through non-invasive foundation methods.

The "Pacem Vacui: Silent Meditation Forest Cabins" project is an architectural endeavor designed to facilitate meditation and introspection within a natural setting. Situated in a forested area, this project emphasizes a harmonious relationship between built structures and their environments, promoting tranquility and mindfulness for its users. The overall concept revolves around creating spaces that not only serve functional purposes but also enhance the user's connection to the surrounding nature.

Unique Site Integration
The cabins are strategically placed to foster an immersive experience with the forest ecosystem. This careful positioning minimizes disruption to the existing landscape while maximizing exposure to natural light and scenic views. The architectural design employs lightweight timber frames coupled with insulated panels, promoting energy efficiency while ensuring durability. Large, strategically positioned windows allow for ample daylight and serve as visual links between the interior spaces and the exterior environment, further solidifying the user’s connection to nature.

Material Selection
The project utilizes a range of sustainable materials, including timber and glass, to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The use of wood in the construction provides effective insulation and a natural aesthetic that complements the forest setting. Glass elements enhance transparency, creating an open and airy feel within the cabins. Additional materials, such as fabrics and metal accents, are employed thoughtfully to promote comfort and functionality without compromising the overall design.

Architectural Layout and Functionality
The layout of the cabins prioritizes user experience through designated areas for meditation and relaxation. The design incorporates open floor plans that promote fluid movement between spaces while defining areas for specific activities. Transition zones facilitate a gradual entry into meditation areas, allowing users to mentally prepare for introspection. The design choices reflect an understanding of how spatial organization can enhance mindfulness and overall well-being.

To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs that characterize this project, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentations.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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