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Elevated Cabin Constructed with Interlocking Wooden Techniques and Natural Insulation Systems

Author:
elena gianni
Elevated Cabin Constructed with Interlocking Wooden Techniques and Natural Insulation Systems

Project in-detail

Constructed with interlocking wooden techniques and elevated to mitigate environmental impact, the cabin offers a flexible living space that harmonizes with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using interlocking wooden techniques for enhanced structural integrity.
02
Elevated foundation to mitigate flood risk in coastal environments.
03
Incorporates a water collection system for efficient resource management.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for improved thermal performance.
05
Features charred wooden shingles for durability and natural aesthetics.

## Overview

Located along the Baltic coast, Casetta is a modular cabin designed to integrate with its surrounding landscape while reflecting local architectural heritage. Drawing inspiration from traditional wooden structures, the design emphasizes modern minimalism and adaptability, making it suitable for various environments, including coastal and wooded settings. The cabin's distinct structural components include a living shell for habitation and a service area for essential amenities, promoting both functionality and spatial efficiency.

## Spatial Strategy and User Functionality

The spatial organization within Casetta prioritizes a user-centric approach. The layout includes a designated service area, equipped with a bathroom and a water collection system, ensuring essential amenities for extended stays. The living and sleeping quarters are designed to be flexible, accommodating both individual sleeping arrangements and communal areas that foster social interaction. Overhead shelving and modular furniture optimize vertical space, while large windows and ambient lighting enhance the indoor environment and connect residents with nature.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

Materiality plays a critical role in the cabin's design, underscoring its sustainability and aesthetic qualities. The primary construction material is wood, selected for its warmth and ease of modular assembly. Metal roofing contributes durability while maintaining a lightweight profile, and glass windows provide natural light and views, offering protection from insects. Insulating materials enhance thermal efficiency, promoting comfort in varying weather conditions. Additionally, the inclusion of a dynamo battery supports basic electrical needs, reinforcing the project's environmental considerations and adaptability to remote locations. The elevated design minimizes potential damage from flooding and soil erosion, aligning with a low-impact development philosophy suitable for ecologically sensitive areas.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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