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Elevated Triangular Form Emphasizing Natural Insulation and Wood Structure in a Retreat Setting

Author:
Cynthia Bell
Elevated Triangular Form Emphasizing Natural Insulation and Wood Structure in a Retreat Setting

Project in-detail

Elevated above the landscape, the triangular timber frame cabin utilizes natural insulation and expansive glazing to form a sustainable retreat that fosters connection with its surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated foundation minimizes site disturbance and enhances views.
02
Integrates operable skylights for natural ventilation and light.
03
Utilizes locally sourced heavy timber for structural integrity.
04
Folding furniture allows flexible interior space adaptation.
05
Triangular form draws inspiration from traditional shelter designs.

### Overview
The Flip cabin is situated in the unique landscapes of Latvia, where it reflects both contemporary architectural principles and local traditions. Designed to promote exploration and interaction with nature, the cabin serves as a space for relaxation as well as communal activities. The architectural intent is to blend the building with its surroundings while fostering a strong connection between occupants and the environment.

### Spatial Strategy
The design incorporates a triangular frame reminiscent of traditional tent structures and A-frame houses, effectively combining structural efficiency with aesthetic appeal. The interior layout prioritizes flexibility, featuring multifunctional spaces that encourage social interaction among occupants. Distinct programmatic areas include rest zones, viewpoints that frame the landscape, and communal cooking and gathering spaces. Notable design features such as a hammock floor and operable walls enhance the adaptability of the living environment, promoting dynamic user experiences.

### Material Selection
A careful selection of materials underpins the project's sustainability objectives and visual coherence. The exterior is clad in a wood plank rainscreen that provides weather protection while integrating with the natural setting. Structural integrity is ensured through a heavy timber frame and shear walls utilizing layered plywood. The use of aluminum storefronts with insulated glazing maximizes natural light and offers thermal efficiency. Additionally, operable skylights enhance ventilation and daylighting, while natural wool insulation and Baltic birch plywood contribute to both sustainability and interior warmth. Ground screw foundations minimize site disruption, aligning with an environmentally responsible approach to construction.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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