Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Elevated Cabin of Silver Fir with Foldable Facade in Austrian Wetlands

Author:
Daniel Derflinger
Elevated Cabin of Silver Fir with Foldable Facade in Austrian Wetlands

Project in-detail

Constructed with a dark facade that melds into the surrounding reeds, the elevated cabin utilizes silver fir and a foldable facade to create a tranquil space for contemplation and connection to the natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a column-based design to minimize ecological impact.
02
Features a foldable facade that enhances flexibility and adaptability.
03
Utilizes silver fir for interior warmth and durability.
04
Incorporates a rainwater collection system for sustainable water management.
05
Elevated structure provides views and mitigates flooding risks.

The cabin is located in a swampy valley in Austria, providing a space for calmness and reflection. It is designed with a focus on connecting with nature and practicing sustainability. The overall concept emphasizes low energy use and forest bathing, making it a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the busyness of daily life.

Setting and Materiality

The cabin is positioned carefully to minimize its impact on the environment while taking full advantage of views of the surrounding nature. Its elevated column construction allows it to rise above the reeds, reducing potential flooding issues that are common in swampy areas. The choice of a dark facade helps the building blend in with the lush vegetation, making it less intrusive in the landscape.

Interior Space and Functionality

Inside, the design prioritizes both comfort and practicality. Silver fir is used throughout the cabin, adding warmth and a sense of durability. The open layout connects the living and cooking areas, allowing for expansive views of the swamps and woods outside. Large windows bring in natural light, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere.

Innovative Design Solutions

Flexibility is a major focus, as seen in the foldable table and the smart use of under-floor storage. These features enhance the usability of the space while keeping it organized. A sliding ladder provides access to the upper-level library, utilizing vertical space effectively. A small workspace with a window ensures that residents can stay connected to the outdoors, reinforcing the design’s emphasis on nature.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is an important aspect of the cabin’s design. Solar panels are integrated to provide renewable energy. Additionally, the roof is designed to collect rainwater, which is stored in an underground reservoir for later use. These features highlight a commitment to eco-friendly practices and enhance the building's relationship with its natural surroundings.

The facade includes foldable elements that allow for adjustments to the cabin’s atmosphere. This design detail enables residents to personalize their experience and maintain a strong connection with the outside environment. The thoughtful integration of these elements reflects the project's dedication to both comfort and ecological balance.

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