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Elevated Retreat Crafted With OSB and Timber Emphasizing Connection to Nature

Authors:
Jakub Kender, Margarita Afanasyeva
Elevated Retreat Crafted With OSB and Timber Emphasizing Connection to Nature

Project in-detail

Constructed with cross-braced timber and expansive glass windows, this compact retreat embodies a unique elevation that invites natural light and a seamless connection to the surrounding woodland, providing a peaceful space for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin's elevated design creates a unique vantage point for uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape.
02
Large fixed glass windows enhance natural light while facilitating a strong visual connection with the woodland.
03
Constructed with sustainable cross-braced timber for structural integrity and minimal environmental impact.
04
The interior layout encourages minimalist living, allowing occupants to focus on essential needs and introspection.
05
Charred wooden shingles provide aesthetic appeal and increased durability against weather elements.
The Reconnection Cabin serves as a thoughtful exploration of the synergy between architecture and nature, designed to create an intimate retreat that promotes both meditation and personal reflection. This project exemplifies a contemporary approach to dwelling, emphasizing a minimalist ethos that encourages occupants to disengage from urban distractions and embrace a simpler, more connected existence in a natural setting.

At its core, the cabin represents a respite from modern life, designed for individuals seeking solitude or couples searching for a shared space that fosters tranquility. The architectural design emphasizes harmony with the environment, utilizing sustainable materials that blend seamlessly into the woodland backdrop. The structure operates on two distinct levels that facilitate different experiences: the ground floor serves as a basic living area, while the upper level opens to expansive views, engaging occupants visually and emotionally with their surroundings.

The ground floor features a utilitarian layout, prioritizing function and simplicity. This level is characterized by its essential amenities, designed to minimize unnecessary distractions and enhance a sense of survival and grounding. The use of natural materials, such as timber and Oriented Strand Board (OSB), not only establishes a warm aesthetic but also promotes environmental stewardship. Each material was carefully selected not only for its sustainability but also for its ability to withstand changing weather conditions, ensuring that the cabin remains a dependable shelter in any season.

In contrast, the first floor is accessed via a ladder, a design choice that symbolizes a transition from the practical to the contemplative. This elevated space is enveloped in natural light, thanks to a large fixed glass window that serves as a key design element. The window acts as a bridge between the interior and the expansive landscape outside, allowing an uninterrupted view of the natural world and reinforcing the cabin's purpose as a place of reflection. The thoughtful placement of this window underscores a unique design approach that prioritizes visual interaction with the environment, encouraging mindfulness and a deeper connection to nature.

Unique to the Reconnection Cabin is its emphasis on verticality as a design motif. The height and access through the ladder create a dynamic experience, evoking a sense of elevation and introspection. The careful spatial organization draws attention to the idea that simple living is not merely about proximity to nature but also about climbing to a heightened state of awareness and self-discovery.

Furthermore, the cabin's architectural design prioritizes thermal efficiency and weather resistance through strategic insulation techniques. Elements such as mineral insulation and vapor barriers work harmoniously to regulate indoor climate, maintaining comfort without compromising environmental integrity. This attention to detail not only enhances the functional longevity of the cabin but also reflects a contemporary understanding of sustainable architectural practices.

This project invites viewers to consider not only the beauty of its form but also the significant philosophy driving its conception. The Reconnection Cabin embodies an architectural ideology that emphasizes minimalism, sustainability, and a thoughtful relationship with the natural environment. It provides a compelling case for how architectural design can serve not just as a physical structure, but as a medium for enhancing human experience.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the considerations and intricacies behind this architectural project, interested readers are encouraged to explore additional resources. Detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs can provide deeper insights into the innovative ideas and practices that define the Reconnection Cabin. Engaging with these materials will enrich the appreciation of the project and offer inspiration for future architectural endeavors.
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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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