Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Framed Views and Finished Plywood in a Tranquil Retreat

Authors:
Joanna Khater, RJ Fiorentino
Framed Views and Finished Plywood in a Tranquil Retreat

Project in-detail

A strong axis and four framed views create a balanced connection to nature in a cabin retreat characterized by finished plywood and metal roofing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Framed views enhance visual connection with the landscape.
02
A strong central axis guides movement throughout the cabin.
03
Finished plywood contributes to the cabin's warm interior ambiance.
04
Symmetrical design promotes balance and harmony in the layout.
05
Metal roofing provides durability while complementing natural elements.

The cabin design offers a thoughtful retreat that connects with its natural surroundings. It is located in a peaceful setting, serving as a space for relaxation and reflection. The design concept highlights directionality and symmetry, which helps create an enjoyable experience that merges the interior with the outside landscape.

Layout and Spatial Organization

A strong central space is the heart of the cabin, with smaller, intimate areas branching out from it. This arrangement encourages both solitude and social interaction. Four symmetrical framed views frame the landscape, guiding attention toward nature outside. These views enhance the feeling of openness and ensure that the surroundings become an integral part of the interior experience.

Directional Flow and Geometry

The central axis is a key element that defines how people move through the space. It provides a clear path and enhances the organization of the layout. This geometric arrangement creates a balanced environment where various areas flow into one another. The combination of symmetry and directional flow makes it easy to navigate the cabin while appreciating the design's thoughtful structure.

Material Considerations

Material choices support both the look and the function of the cabin. The design incorporates metal roofing and wood framed ceilings, which ensure durability while infusing warmth. Finished plywood used in the ceilings and flooring enhances the natural feel of the cabin. These materials reflect the context of the site, emphasizing a connection to the outdoors.

The careful arrangement of elements fosters a strong relationship with the landscape. Framed views draw attention to the scenery outside, inviting occupants to engage with their surroundings. These thoughtful design details contribute to the cabin's goal of integrating with nature, creating a peaceful and inviting atmosphere.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy