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Harnessing Sunlight Through OSB and Cellulose in a Tranquil Lakeside Cabin

Authors:
Raihan Ramadhan, Valencia Angelita, Clemens Samuel Utomo
Harnessing Sunlight Through OSB and Cellulose in a Tranquil Lakeside Cabin
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Positioned to capture the sun's path, a lakeside cabin constructed of OSB and cellulose offers a serene retreat designed for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Maximizes sunlight exposure through strategically placed openings.
02
Utilizes OSB for both structural and aesthetic elements.
03
Incorporates cellulose insulation for enhanced thermal efficiency.
04
Designed to minimize mosquito disturbances near the lake.
05
Features distinct separation of public and private zones within the cabin.

Interchange is a contemporary design that harmonizes living space with the natural environment. Located near a lake, the setting provides a thoughtful backdrop for a cabin that is meant to encourage meditation and reflection. The design concept is rooted in the movement of the sun throughout the day, allowing natural light to play a significant role in shaping experiences within the space.

Design Concept
The main idea behind Interchange is to maximize sunlight exposure from morning to evening. This guiding principle influences the layout and orientation of the cabin. Openings are strategically placed to welcome in light. The result is a space that enhances the sense of calm and focus, making it ideal for those seeking tranquility in their daily lives.

Site Planning
Choosing the site was an important part of the design process. The area’s sparse tree coverage near the lake ensures that abundant sunlight reaches the cabin while also reducing the chances of mosquito disturbances. This decision illustrates a careful response to environmental factors, contributing to the overall comfort of the space and creating a deeper connection with the landscape.

Material Utilization
A key aspect of the design lies in the selection of materials, which balances practicality with environmental responsibility. Oriented Strand Board (OSB) is primarily used for both the exterior and interior. It is known for its durability and adaptability. Cellulose insulation adds to the efficiency of the building by helping maintain a pleasant temperature throughout changing seasons. Together, these materials support the architectural vision while committing to eco-friendly practices.

Spatial Organization
The interior layout effectively separates public and private spaces, encouraging both social engagement and personal reflection. This clear division is intentional, designed to suit different activities while keeping a cohesive feel throughout the cabin. Insulated windows enhance this experience, allowing sunlight to warm the interiors while preventing moisture from entering.

A notable detail is the way light and shadow interact throughout the day. The carefully positioned openings create shifting patterns that invite users to engage with their surroundings continuously. This dynamic quality enriches the living experience, making it more engaging and connected to nature.

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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

Open architecture competitions

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    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
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    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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