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Curved Roof and Natural Ventilation in a Compact Timber Home

Authors:
Luis Canepa, André Ávila, Leonardo Mafort
Curved Roof and Natural Ventilation in a Compact Timber Home
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The curved roof design and integrated zenith openings enhance natural ventilation in a compact timber cabin that serves as a modern residence for a young couple in the Amazon rainforest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved roof enhances airflow and natural ventilation.
02
Modular construction allows for easy transport and assembly.
03
Glued laminated timber provides structural strength and warmth.
04
Zenith openings promote thermal comfort and natural lighting.
05
Integrated rainwater collection supports sustainability efforts.

The Amazon Cabin is located in the diverse environment of the Amazon rainforest and serves as a residence for a young couple. The design focuses on modernizing their living experience while addressing ecological concerns and the specific needs of the area. Drawing inspiration from indigenous architecture, the cabin aims for a balance between contemporary comforts and the natural surroundings.

Design Concept

The concept centers on efficiency and adaptability, allowing for a modular structure that is easy to transport and assemble. This design minimizes disturbance to the natural environment and allows for quick construction. The layout takes into account the humid climate, ensuring that the house is comfortable and functional throughout the year.

Interior Spaces

The layout of the Amazon Cabin is compact, covering an area of 24 square meters. It includes a living area, kitchen, dining space, bathroom, and bedroom, all designed to overlap in their functions. This approach promotes a sense of openness and flexibility, often using foldable furniture to maximize the available space. The arrangement creates an inviting atmosphere that connects the occupants with the outside world.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is a key focus in the cabin's design. Natural ventilation is achieved through zenith openings that enable airflow, reducing the dependence on air conditioning. Brises soleil are incorporated to provide shade, which helps keep the interior cool without the need for excess energy use. These features align with the overall goal of creating an eco-friendly living environment.

Materials and Environmental Integration

Glued laminated timber is chosen for its structural strength and warm appearance. The use of glass and mosquito netting enhances natural light and provides effective insect protection. The cabin also includes systems for rainwater collection as well as photovoltaic panels, allowing for energy independence.

A standout aspect of the design is the curved roof, which not only facilitates airflow but also adds a unique aesthetic touch. This element encourages a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing the experience of living in the Amazon while respecting the vibrant natural landscape.

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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 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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