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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
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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.

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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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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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