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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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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.

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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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