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Elevated Design With Steel Supports and Charred Wooden Shingles in A Forest Retreat

Author:
Changsuk Han
Elevated Design With Steel Supports and Charred Wooden Shingles in A Forest Retreat

Project in-detail

Built on elevated steel supports and clad in charred wooden shingles, this cabin integrates large glass panels to frame forest views, creating a tranquil retreat for meditation and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design minimizes ground disturbance and enhances structural longevity.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide natural fire resistance while blending with the forest environment.
03
Large glass panels maximize natural light and create seamless connections to the landscape.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels offer sustainability and structural strength in construction.
05
The bent A-frame design enhances wind resistance and aesthetic appeal in a natural setting.
The "Forest to Frame" project is an architectural design that embodies a harmonious relationship between human habitation and the surrounding natural landscape. Situated in a forested area near Lake Bezdibene, this cabin serves as a retreat for relaxation and meditation, allowing occupants to engage with the wilderness. The design emphasizes connectivity with nature through its spatial organization and material choice, thereby enhancing the user experience.

The cabin is structured into two primary levels, each serving distinct functions while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. The ground floor features an open-plan multipurpose area that accommodates various activities such as reading, relaxation, and social interaction. This flexible layout encourages adaptability over time, responding to the needs of its users. Key functional components on this level include storage spaces and a compact bathroom, ensuring practicality while maintaining an uncluttered atmosphere.

The upper loft serves as a quieter retreat for individual reflection and meditation. It is strategically located to offer immersive views of the surrounding landscape, reinforcing the project's intent to facilitate a deeper connection with nature. The use of varied window sizes and placements serves as frames for specific vistas, drawing attention to the forest and the changing light throughout the day.

A defining feature of this architectural project is its elevated design. By employing steel foundation supports, the cabin sits above the ground, reducing potential moisture issues and allowing for unhindered views of the environment. This elevation contributes to an illusion of lightness, which integrates the structure with the forest rather than imposing it upon the landscape. The overall cubic form of the cabin is carefully crafted to balance solid walls with voids created by windows, enhancing the dialogue between built and natural environments.

An innovative aspect of the design is its commitment to sustainability. The project incorporates renewable energy systems, including solar panels, reflecting a modern approach to environmental responsibility. Additionally, the materiality of the cabin, primarily wood combined with glass and steel, is chosen for its ecological compatibility, promoting a warm and inviting atmosphere that blends with the surrounding trees.

The "Forest to Frame" project stands out in its approach to mindful architecture. By prioritizing occupants' mental well-being through design elements that promote tranquility and introspection, the cabin serves as more than merely a physical structure; it acts as a facilitator of personal connection and reflection amidst nature. Each element, from floor plans to window orientations, thoughtfully contributes to the overarching goal of enhancing the user’s experience in a forest setting.

For those interested in delving deeper into the details of this architectural design, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and various designs will provide invaluable insights into its conception and execution. Understanding the nuances of these architectural ideas can inspire further dialogue regarding the interplay between architecture and the environment.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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