Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Cross-Laminated Timber Cabins Incorporating Sustainable Cork Insulation for Holistic Living

Authors:
Eugenia Rivadavia Dominici, Noelia Moratorio Di Doménico
Cross-Laminated Timber Cabins Incorporating Sustainable Cork Insulation for Holistic Living
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Incorporating cross-laminated timber and sustainable cork insulation, the design creates a network of cabins that fosters community and well-being in a natural setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins feature a bent A-frame design that enhances structural efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
02
Extensive use of sustainable cork insulation provides superior thermal properties and acoustic benefits.
03
Each cabin is strategically oriented to maximize solar exposure and minimize energy consumption.
04
A zen garden landscape design fosters mindfulness and community interaction among residents.
05
The project utilizes locally sourced materials to integrate seamlessly with the surrounding environment.

The Sanctuary Cabins project exemplifies a cohesive architectural design that synchronizes living spaces with their natural environment. Nestled within a serene landscape, these cabins provide an immersive experience focused on well-being and sustainability. Each structure adopts simple geometric forms, primarily triangular, that resonate with local architectural vernacular while promoting effective energy management and environmental harmony.

Integration with Nature

A notable feature of the Sanctuary Cabins is their design philosophy centered around a harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape. Utilizing cork and cross-laminated timber, the project emphasizes sustainable building practices. The cabins are oriented to capture optimal sunlight, facilitating natural heating and minimizing reliance on artificial lighting. Large windows and circular skylights allow for abundant natural light, fostering a tranquil atmosphere conducive to relaxation and reflection.

Moreover, outdoor integration plays a significant role in the overall design. The use of a zen garden featuring gravel, sand, and minimal vegetation not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also encourages mindfulness and communal interaction. This approach establishes a unique outdoor experience that aligns with the overarching theme of holistic living.

Innovative Design Strategies

The Sanctuary Cabins incorporate innovative design strategies to address contemporary architectural challenges. One distinguishing aspect is the emphasis on modularity, allowing for flexible interior spaces adaptable to various functions such as meditation or community gatherings. This adaptability supports a diverse range of resident needs while maintaining a cohesive architectural identity.

In addition, the project pays attention to environmental impacts by incorporating solar panels for renewable energy generation and systems for the reuse of gray water. The use of expanded insulation cork boards ensures effective thermal performance, aligning with the project's sustainability goals. Such considerations demonstrate a commitment to minimizing ecological footprints while maximizing occupant comfort.

Creating Community Spaces

The arrangement of cabins fosters a sense of community while respecting individual privacy. This dual focus on shared spaces and private sanctuaries exemplifies a balanced living experience, inviting social interaction while allowing for personal retreat. The deliberate positioning of the cabins encourages connectivity among residents and enhances the collective environment.

The Sanctuary Cabins stand out as an exemplary model of contemporary architecture that prioritizes ecological responsibility and human well-being. For deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and specific design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation of the project. An examination of these elements will yield a comprehensive understanding of the innovative approaches employed throughout this architectural endeavor.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
new
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
new
The Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 July 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026
new
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 29 July 2026
new
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 30 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

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

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026
MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy