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Elevated Thatched Lodge with Gabled Roofs and Natural Filtration

Authors:
Habibah Salman, Aya Rahmy
Elevated Thatched Lodge with Gabled Roofs and Natural Filtration
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Elevated above the ground, the thatched lodge incorporates an innovative gabled roof design and an integrated rainwater filtration system, offering a space for meditation and connection to Cambodia's rich silk weaving heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure built on a triangular framework to prevent flooding.
02
Thatched shell design reflects traditional Cambodian silk weaving techniques.
03
Integrated rainwater filtration system promotes environmental sustainability.
04
Functional divisions for meditation, sleep, and storage enhance user experience.
05
Gabled roofs efficiently manage rainwater drainage and airflow.

The Silk Hut is located in Cambodia and is designed to celebrate the country's heritage of silk weaving. The lodge incorporates a design inspired by the concept of a cocoon, providing visitors with a sense of shelter while connecting them to the natural surroundings. Elevated above the ground on a triangular framework, the structure achieves stability while promoting an immersive experience.

Design Inspiration

The design reflects traditional Cambodian architecture, particularly the practice of raising homes on stilts to avoid seasonal flooding. This elevation allows the space to remain resilient in its environment. Inside, the lodge includes designated areas for sleeping, meditation, and storage. This thoughtful arrangement enhances usability and guides visitors through the space intuitively.

Material Usage

The Silk Hut features a thatched shell that connects with the local tradition of silk weaving. This material choice emphasizes cultural significance and adds to the visual appeal of the structure. A concrete foundation offers a solid base, while wood serves as a lightweight framework. Reed is also used for the outer skin, reinforcing the structure’s relationship with the surrounding natural environment.

Sustainable Features

Sustainable practices are integral to the design, particularly in addressing the local climate. Gabled roofs help manage rainwater effectively, channeling it through an exoskeleton into an underground filtration system. This design approach respects the local ecosystem and demonstrates a commitment to environmental care while integrating with the landscape.

Visual Connectivity

The lodge's height not only provides protection but also offers views of the surrounding area. Open terraces allow visitors to engage with the landscape fully. The relationship between the structure and its site enhances the experience, inviting guests to appreciate the tranquility and beauty of the natural environment surrounding the Silk Hut.

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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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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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