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Diamond-Shaped Retreats Elevated on Slender Concrete Foundations with Solid Timber Frames

Author:
David Fjällström
Diamond-Shaped Retreats Elevated on Slender Concrete Foundations with Solid Timber Frames

Project in-detail

Elevated diamond-shaped cabins crafted with solid timber frames and anchored on slender concrete bases provide a serene retreat for mindfulness and rejuvenation in the tranquil landscape of Vale de Moses.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabins are supported by a slender concrete base, elevating them above the terrain and minimizing land disturbance.
02
Each structure features a diamond shape that enhances both aesthetic appeal and structural stability.
03
Crafted from solid timber and plywood, the cabins utilize sustainable materials that blend seamlessly with the environment.
04
Large operable windows promote natural ventilation and maximize views of the surrounding landscape.
05
The design incorporates passive solar principles to enhance energy efficiency and occupant comfort.
The Balancing Cabins project marries practical function with thoughtful architectural design, creating unique spaces that promote wellness and mindfulness within the natural landscape of Vale de Moses. These structures are carefully crafted to encapsulate the idea of balance—a core principle often associated with yoga and holistic living. The architecture serves not only as a retreat but also as a meaningful space where individuals can engage in personal reflection and physical rejuvenation.

This project is notable for its distinctive approach to geometry and form. The cabins feature a diamond shape that sets them apart from traditional building norms, allowing for an interplay of light and shadow across their surfaces. The slanted roofs give the structures an airy feeling, rising sharply toward the sky while integrating seamlessly with the surrounding mountainous environment. This design choice emphasizes an intentional departure from conventional cabin construction, highlighting a philosophy that seeks to balance aesthetics with functionality.

Functionally, these cabins serve multiple purposes. They provide sleeping quarters for visitors and spaces for meditation and yoga practices. The interior layout is designed to be open and flexible, encouraging occupants to reconfigure spaces according to their needs. Large operable windows facilitate natural light penetration, enhancing the experience of living closely with nature. The interplay of angles and shapes creates a dynamic interior that feels both expansive and cozy—an embodiment of balance that enriches the user experience.

An essential aspect of this project is its commitment to sustainability and environmental harmony. The material choices reflect this philosophy, with solid timber and plywood forming the primary structure. These materials not only offer aesthetic warmth but also ensure durability and resilience. The use of aluminum for roofing introduces a lightweight, weather-resistant element that complements the overall design while being mindful of ecological footprints. Furthermore, the integration of a grey water recycling system demonstrates a conscious effort to minimize water usage, enhancing the project’s sustainability credentials.

One of the standout features of the Balancing Cabins is the innovative structural approach that underpins their construction. The cabins rest on a slender concrete foundation that elevates them above the natural terrain. This design mitigates land disturbance while offering users panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The thoughtfulness in the structural design reflects a broader architectural idea that values the context of the building site, ensuring that the cabins are not merely placed but rather integrated with their environment.

Moreover, the emphasis on the cabins' adjustable nature allows for a variety of configurations, showcasing flexibility in design that accommodates different uses and user preferences. This adaptability is particularly relevant for future applications—whether for individual use, retreats, or potential communal gatherings.

As a whole, the Balancing Cabins project exemplifies modern architecture's potential to foster spaces that are both functional and symbiotic with their environments. This thoughtful integration of natural elements, innovative materials, and clever spatial planning combines to create an experience that resonates with the philosophy of balance. For those interested in gaining deeper insights into this project, examining the architectural plans, design layouts, and sections would provide a fuller understanding of the unique approaches employed in its development. Exploring the detailed architectural designs and ideas behind the Balancing Cabins can further illuminate the intentional thought that has gone into crafting these distinctive structures.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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