Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

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

Elevated Retreat With Cedar Cladding and Transparent Facades Surrounded By Nature

Authors:
Shaun Lee, Jade Tan, Kelly Choi
Elevated Retreat With Cedar Cladding and Transparent Facades Surrounded By Nature

Project in-detail

Elevated above the forest floor with cedar cladding and expansive glass façades, the design integrates natural elements to create a communal guesthouse that fosters tranquility and reflection in a woodland setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure reduces ground disturbance, allowing natural vegetation to thrive.
02
Cedar cladding enhances durability and integrates visually with the forest.
03
Generous glass panels create seamless connections between interior and exterior spaces.
04
The design employs cross-laminated timber for structural efficiency.
05
Community areas encourage social interaction while maintaining privacy for guests.
The project "Cabins Fo(R)Rest," also known as Teamaker's Guest House, represents an innovative approach to architecture that merges modern design with an immersive natural environment. This project serves both a recreational and contemplative function, designed specifically to accommodate visitors seeking reconnection with nature. Its architectural layout is carefully considered to enhance the user experience while minimizing environmental impact.

Strategically positioned within a forested setting, the cabins exemplify a commitment to sustainability. The structure is elevated, which protects the surrounding ecosystem and minimizes ground disturbance. This design approach allows natural vegetation to flourish beneath, preserving the forest's integrity. Each cabin is designed with distinct levels that facilitate specific activities—reflective spaces, communal gathering areas, and zones for rejuvenation—encouraging diverse interactions with both the architecture and landscape.

The use of materials plays a critical role in this project’s identity. Timber is primarily incorporated, chosen for its warmth and organic texture. Cedar is employed for exterior cladding due to its durability and aesthetic qualities, while reinforced plywood serves as internal finishes. Large glass panels are embedded throughout, creating visual permeability between the interior and the exterior environment. This transparency fosters a strong connection to the natural surroundings, allowing for abundant light and unobstructed views.

Unique Design Approaches
What differentiates "Cabins Fo(R)Rest" from other similar projects is its intentional elevation above the ground level. By utilizing a series of slender stilts, the structure creates a minimal footprint, reducing ecological disruption. This not only preserves the forest’s biodiversity but also enhances the overall user experience by offering an unobstructed perspective of the landscape.

Additionally, the project implements a sequential design philosophy promoting a curated journey through four levels—Reflect, Recharge, Refresh, and Reset. Each floor has specific characteristics and functions that encourage visitors to engage with their environment on various levels. This deliberate layering provides both privacy and community, catering to different user needs and promoting social interaction within a tranquil setting.

Functional Integration
Functionality is paramount in the architectural design of the cabins. The ground floor welcomes occupants with easy access to nature and serves as a transition space. The middle floor acts as a living area, encouraging social interaction among guests. The upper levels are reserved for more introspective activities, providing serene spaces that invite quiet reflection. The arrangement ensures that all aspects of the user experience are addressed, from social interaction to personal retreat.

The architectural planning is detail-oriented, incorporating structural elements such as steel frames that provide durability while still allowing for expansive, open interiors. Roofs constructed from local timber shingles are aesthetically pleasing and weather-resistant, further integrating the cabins into their natural surroundings.

The "Cabins Fo(R)Rest" project stands as a practical demonstration of thoughtful architecture that prioritizes both functional use and environmental stewardship. For a comprehensive understanding of the detailed aspects of the project, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
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 17,249 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