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Elevated Cedar Shelter with Asymmetrical Roof Blending into Coastal Wilderness

Authors:
Julia Grünbaum, Ellen Uggla
Elevated Cedar Shelter with Asymmetrical Roof Blending into Coastal Wilderness
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Elevated on sturdy pilings to minimize ecological impact, the design incorporates a cedar façade and an asymmetrical roof, creating a functional shelter for hikers seeking respite in a coastal forest setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design minimizes ground impact and enhances natural ventilation.
02
Asymmetrical roof provides weather protection and enhances aesthetic appeal.
03
Integrated observation tower offers panoramic views of the coastal landscape.
04
Cedar façade allows for natural aging, blending harmoniously with the environment.
05
Workspace includes built-in storage solutions to maintain functionality and organization.

### Overview
Located within a sloped landscape that transitions from forest to coastline, the design integrates into its natural surroundings, providing a resting space for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Characterized by thoughtful material selection and innovative structural design, the structure aims to harmonize environmental considerations with user experience, promoting engagement with the picturesque environment.

### Material Selection and Structural Design
The project utilizes a diverse range of materials that create a cohesive connection to its environment. The façade features cedar wood, offering a warm aesthetic, while a steel plate roof ensures durability and weather resistance. Additional elements include a metal net for visual connectivity and a textile net that allows openness while enclosing specific areas. Structural integrity is achieved through the use of spruce massive timber, providing strength alongside lightweight characteristics. Elevated on 5-meter wooden pilings, the design minimizes land disruption and enhances airflow, contributing to overall energy efficiency.

### Spatial Configuration and User Interaction
The interior encompasses approximately 50 square meters, featuring a communal area with a fireplace and sleeping quarters for up to four individuals, alongside built-in storage solutions to maintain functionality. An outdoor deck of 15 square meters extends from the main structure, designed for social interactions and gatherings. The integration of an observation tower enhances the experience by offering stargazing opportunities, while the asymmetrical roof not only adds visual interest but also ensures shelter from the elements. Overall, the layout promotes a balance between social interaction and personal retreat, encouraging an immersive connection with the natural surroundings.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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