Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Curvilinear Form Enhanced by Glue-Laminated Timber and Panoramic Views for a Sustainable Retreat

Authors:
Khashayar Shahkolahy, Ramon Caba, Mike Secrist, Elina Zaytseva
Curvilinear Form Enhanced by Glue-Laminated Timber and Panoramic Views for a Sustainable Retreat

Project in-detail

The use of curvilinear forms and glue-laminated timber panels creates a seamless connection with the surrounding forest, establishing a sustainable retreat designed for meditation and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to enhance structural stability and aesthetic continuity with the landscape.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for improved sustainability and superior thermal performance.
03
Features charred wooden shingles that provide a distinctive visual texture and enhanced weather resistance.
04
Designed with expansive panoramic windows that seamlessly connect indoor and outdoor environments.
05
Includes a green roof system to promote biodiversity and improve energy efficiency.

### Overview

The Synergy Cabin project is situated in a forested area adjacent to a body of water, designed to integrate contemporary architecture with natural surroundings. The intent is to create a space that encourages a connection between occupants and their environment, functioning as both a dwelling and a retreat that promotes mindfulness and relaxation.

### Spatial Strategy

The cabin features a central multi-use area serving as the core for various activities, promoting a fluid transition between interconnected circular spaces. Key components include a dedicated meditation space designed to foster tranquility, kitchenette and living areas that balance hospitality with privacy, and exterior meditation zones that merge indoor and outdoor environments. The design emphasizes energy flow through a spatial hierarchy, where communal areas are more open, while private spaces provide seclusion.

### Materiality

The chosen materials reflect a commitment to sustainability and visual harmony. Glue Laminated Timber and wood panels are predominant, reinforcing warmth and natural aesthetics, while insulated glass facilitates expansive views and energy efficiency. The roofing incorporates metal coping and membranes for durability, alongside spray foam insulation to maintain a comfortable indoor climate. A green roof system supports biodiversity and insulation, and concrete foundations provide structural stability. This careful selection not only adheres to ecological principles but also enhances the cabin's integration within its natural context.

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

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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