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Elevated Spruce Cabins Designed for Contemplation Amidst Nature

Authors:
Konstantinos Paloubis, Chrisanthi Karta
Elevated Spruce Cabins Designed for Contemplation Amidst Nature

Project in-detail

Elevated above the forest floor, a series of sustainably built spruce cabins incorporate expansive glass surfaces and a spiral design to enhance the connection between inhabitants and their natural surroundings, serving as a retreat for reflection and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins are elevated to minimize environmental impact and enhance views.
02
The spiral design facilitates a guided movement through the natural landscape.
03
Extensive use of glass creates seamless indoor-outdoor connections.
04
Sustainability is prioritized with solar energy integration and local materials.
05
Dedicated spaces for meditation and communal gatherings enhance user experience.
The project "Dwelling · Thinking · Feeling" represents an architectural approach that emphasizes a closer connection to nature through thoughtfully designed living spaces in a forest environment. This design consists of a series of small cabins tailored for various activities, including meditation, communal gathering, and personal reflection. Each cabin is strategically placed to enhance the interaction between inhabitants and the natural surroundings, emphasizing principles of ecological sustainability and mindfulness.

Unique Configurations and Materiality

This project distinguishes itself through its spiral layout, which guides users through a journey of interaction with both the architecture and the landscape. The cabins are elevated off the ground, promoting harmony with the existing ecosystem and allowing for seasonal adjustments to environmental conditions. Constructed primarily from local spruce wood, the cabins exhibit a visual warmth that contrasts with the surrounding greenery while remaining environmentally sound. The extensive use of glass in the design maximizes natural light and provides unobstructed views of the forest, fostering a continuous dialogue between the indoor and outdoor environments.

The project includes solar panels as part of its energy strategy, aligning with contemporary architectural practices aimed at sustainability. A wood stove is integrated into each cabin, reducing energy reliance and supporting an environmentally friendly lifestyle.

Functional Spaces that Facilitate Experience

Each cabin is designed with a multi-functional floor plan that blends living, cooking, and communal activities. Open interior layouts promote interaction, while private spaces are intentionally designed for relaxation or contemplation. The architectural sections and plans are executed to illustrate the vertical design considerations and spatial relationships within the cabins. The isometric views further convey how this architectural design facilitates user experience, emphasizing the flow between different spaces and the forest.

To explore an in-depth analysis of the architectural plans, sections, and the overall design intricacies of "Dwelling · Thinking · Feeling," it is encouraged to review the project presentation. This deeper dive provides valuable insights into the architectural ideas and methodologies employed throughout the project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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