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Cross-Laminated Timber Modules Complementing Charred Wooden Shingles in Eco-Friendly Rest Stops

Authors:
David Vardy, Xiaohan Chen, Guillermo Sanchez Sotes
Cross-Laminated Timber Modules Complementing Charred Wooden Shingles in Eco-Friendly Rest Stops
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Crafted from cross-laminated timber and enhanced by charred wooden shingles, these modular rest stops provide cyclists with sustainable amenities that seamlessly integrate with the landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using modular components for easy replication along cycling routes.
02
Incorporates a folly design to enhance visual engagement with the landscape.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Features a bent A-frame structure to optimize natural light and ventilation.
05
Promotes environmental sustainability through the use of renewable materials and minimal ecological footprint.

The project focuses on creating modular rest stops along the EuroVelo 6 cycling route. It aims to enhance the experience of cyclists through well-designed facilities that blend into the surrounding landscape. The architecture emphasizes functionality, adaptability, and sustainability, addressing the needs of modern velo tourists seeking both rest and engagement with their environment.

Design and Functionality

These modular rest stops serve multiple functions: a place for rest, social interaction, and cultural engagement. The architecture is characterized by the use of cross-laminated timber and steel mesh panels, which offer durability while ensuring a lightweight structure. The design incorporates a canteen area for communal dining and sleeping pods that provide privacy and comfort. The integration of open and closed spaces enables users to transition between community interaction and personal reflection, catering to diverse visitor needs.

What Makes This Project Unique

The project distinguishes itself through its focus on the folly concept, creating whimsical yet functional structures that act as landmarks along the cycling route. Each rest stop enhances the visual connectivity of the landscape while allowing for experimentation in form and space. The adaptability of the modular design allows for future expansions or relocations with minimal disruption. Moreover, the thoughtful material selection promotes sustainability, ensuring that the construction footprint is light while using materials that provide resilience in various weather conditions.

Architectural Considerations

Architectural plans illustrate the comprehensive approach to integrating natural elements with human-made structures. The arrangement of the modules allows for unique interactions with the environment, encouraging visitors to engage with nature while utilizing modern amenities. Architectural sections highlight the careful consideration given to light and ventilation, maximizing the comfort of occupants. The design reflects contemporary architectural ideas focused on sustainability and adaptability, making it relevant to current trends in cycling tourism and outdoor recreation.

For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design approach, readers are encouraged to explore the complete project presentation. This will provide a deeper understanding of the innovative ideas and practical applications that define this architectural endeavor.

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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.

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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