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Forest Cabin Constructed with Natural Stone and Plain Concrete

Author:
Panagiotis Lampronikos
Forest Cabin Constructed with Natural Stone and Plain Concrete
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Constructed with natural stone and plain concrete, the forest cabin offers a minimalist retreat that integrates essential amenities with the surrounding landscape for immersive nature experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a pit beneath the cabin for essential facilities.
02
Incorporates a fireplace that serves as the cabin's primary light source.
03
Uses local natural stone to reinforce the structure's integration with the landscape.
04
Features two opposing openings to enhance natural light and ventilation.
05
Emphasizes a minimalist layout without furniture, focusing on simplicity.

The primordial forest cabin is situated in a tranquil natural environment, designed to provide a retreat for those seeking to connect with nature. The structure encourages occupants to engage with their surroundings, drawing inspiration from the sensory experiences found in forest landscapes. The focus is on simplicity and practicality, allowing a harmonious relationship between the cabin and the wilderness. This approach aims to promote a greater understanding of humanity’s place in the natural world.

Design Elements

The cabin features a straightforward square shape and a sloped roof, which help reduce its visual impact on the forest. With two openings on opposite sides, natural light and fresh air are invited into the space. This design choice enhances the interaction between the interior and the outside world. The views framed by these openings encourage occupants to appreciate the beauty of nature and heighten the contrast between the built environment and its natural surroundings.

Functional Aspects

Underneath the cabin, a pit is included to house necessary facilities, such as a small dry toilet. This arrangement ensures that practical elements are easily accessible while reinforcing the compact nature of the structure. Using natural stone and plain concrete planks, the pit is made durable yet unobtrusive, blending into the landscape so that it does not disrupt the overall experience of the forest.

Atmospheric Elements

A fireplace is integrated within the cabin, serving as a key feature to provide warmth and comfort. It becomes a gathering point for occupants, especially during the night when firelight is the main source of illumination. This soft, flickering light creates a cozy atmosphere, inviting deeper reflection and connection to the surroundings. The interplay of shadows and light enriches the sensory experience, encouraging a closer bond with the natural setting.

Spatial Dynamics

The design highlights a minimalist approach that values clear functionality over decorative elements. Each component is thoughtfully integrated to facilitate a meaningful experience within the forest. This attention to space promotes awareness of the environment, enabling a richer relationship with the landscape.

The interior of the cabin is painted white, contrasting with the vibrant greens around it. This choice allows the natural surroundings to command attention, reinforcing the idea of living in harmony with the forest. With these design choices, the cabin effectively embodies the spirit of close living with nature, emphasizing both comfort and connection to the environment.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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