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Faceted Glass Facade and Local Timber Construction in a Coastal Retreat

Author:
Jimena González
Faceted Glass Facade and Local Timber Construction in a Coastal Retreat

Project in-detail

The faceted glass facade, combined with local timber construction, creates a contemporary retreat that seamlessly blends with its coastal environment while providing a comfortable living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Faceted glass design enhances natural light and provides panoramic views of the landscape.
02
Local timber construction reduces transportation emissions and supports regional economies.
03
Charred wooden shingles offer enhanced durability and a unique aesthetic contrast.
04
The bent A-frame structure optimizes structural performance and visual appeal.
05
Strategic site placement minimizes environmental impact while maximizing privacy.

**Overview**

The Gemstone Cabin is situated in a coastal environment characterized by its natural beauty and proximity to water bodies. Reflecting a design intent informed by the multifaceted qualities of amber, the cabin harmonizes modern architecture with its surroundings, fostering a relationship with nature for its occupants. This structure not only serves as a dwelling but also as an experiential space that enhances the connection between users and their environment.

**Materiality and Sustainability**

The design integrates a careful selection of materials that prioritize sustainability while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Light woods, laminated wood, and plywood provide structural integrity and a natural aesthetic. Glass elements promote transparency, allowing natural light to penetrate the space and offer views of the exterior landscape. Furthermore, fiber insulation enhances energy efficiency, ensuring year-round comfort, while a concrete base provides stability. This commitment to locally sourced materials and efficient design strategies exemplifies a responsible approach to construction.

**Spatial Planning and User Experience**

The interior layout emphasizes functionality and user experience, featuring open-plan living areas that encourage social interaction and leisure. Loft-like spaces incorporate multi-functional elements, fostering a sense of comfort within the cabin. The use of textures, such as smooth glass against rugged wood, elevates the aesthetic experience. The design thoughtfully considers user comfort with dedicated areas for relaxation while offering secluded niches that invite solitude. The result is a cohesive environment that supports both community connection and personal retreat.

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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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