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Dynamic Cabin Shaped Like a Leaf Featuring Glue-Laminated Timber

Author:
Haya Nadir
Dynamic Cabin Shaped Like a Leaf Featuring Glue-Laminated Timber

Project in-detail

Shaped like a fallen leaf and constructed with glue-laminated timber, the cabin integrates varying ceiling heights and sustainable features for a tranquil retreat focused on mindfulness and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Shaped to resemble a fallen leaf, enhancing its connection to nature.
02
Utilizes glue-laminated timber for structural support and warmth.
03
Features varying ceiling heights, creating an engaging spatial experience.
04
Incorporates a dry toilet system to eliminate the need for running water.
05
Allows for rainwater collection, promoting sustainable resource management.

"The Fallen Leaf" offers a thoughtful design that connects people with nature. Located in a tranquil forest setting, the cabin serves as a retreat focused on relaxation and mindfulness. The design is inspired by the shape of a fallen leaf, creating a structure that blends into the environment while enhancing the user's experience.

Design Concept

The cabin features a unique, flowing form characterized by varying ceiling heights, which adds interest and depth to the interior. One side of the cabin faces a calm lake, while the other looks toward a dense forest. This layout encourages interactions with the natural surroundings and fosters a sense of peace and comfort for its occupants.

Interior Organization

Inside, spaces are designed for different activities, including meditation, sleeping, and cooking. A dry toilet system reduces the need for running water, allowing for a more sustainable approach to living. The possibility of collecting rainwater further reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility and resource management.

Materiality

The cabin primarily uses glue-laminated timber, known as Glue-lam, for its strength and warmth. This material is complemented by various timber details throughout the cabin, particularly in the roof structure, which enhances the organic feel of the design. Steel components are included to provide stability and support at key structural connections, ensuring the cabin's durability over time.

Spatial Dynamics

The varying ceiling heights create an engaging internal environment that encourages movement and visual exploration. Natural light is carefully distributed, enhancing the overall experience within the cabin. This interplay of light and shape draws attention to the organic forms, emphasizing the connection between the structure and its natural setting.

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

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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

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