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Heat-Treated Wood Cabins Embracing Natural Landscapes for Holistic Living

Authors:
Barbara Selinšek, Stasha Jobanovikj
Heat-Treated Wood Cabins Embracing Natural Landscapes for Holistic Living
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Glued, heat-treated wood forms the foundation of cabins strategically placed on terraced plateaus, fostering a strong connection to nature while promoting relaxation and community living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins are constructed using glued, heat-treated wood for enhanced durability.
02
Each cabin features a window garden designed for personal well-being.
03
Terraces provide flexible outdoor spaces for relaxation and social activities.
04
Natural ventilation systems are integrated to improve indoor air quality.
05
The layout emphasizes orientation towards southern and southwestern views for optimal sunlight.

The design is situated in a varied landscape that highlights the connection between nature and personal well-being. It focuses on five elements—water, air, earth, fire, and ether—to create a living environment that respects and engages with its surroundings. The main features are cabins placed on terraced plateaus, each thoughtfully designed to blend with the landscape while making the most of natural light and views.

Cabin Arrangement

The layout consists of a series of cabins that lean into the hills and float above the ground. This design fosters a strong relationship with both the land and the environment. Each cabin is oriented to face south and southwest, maximizing sunlight and offering picturesque views. This careful positioning enhances comfort and establishes a close connection to nature.

Outdoor Spaces

Adjacent to the cabins are terraces that extend the living areas outdoors. These spaces are designed for various activities, promoting relaxation and social interaction among residents. Whether connected to the cabins or standing independently, these terraces blend naturally with the landscape, encouraging outdoor living and interaction with nature.

Structural Design

A robust framework provides the necessary support for the cabins while maintaining an airy appearance. This structure is constructed from steel and reinforced concrete, ensuring durability and stability. Glued, heat-treated wood is used in the primary construction, arranged in a way that creates an efficient load-bearing system. This choice of materials aligns with a commitment to sustainability.

Interior Environment

The interiors incorporate cork and locally sourced woods, including pine and cedar. These materials contribute to a warm, welcoming atmosphere and are treated with natural oils for protection, highlighting a focus on sustainability. Technical features such as natural ventilation and renewable energy systems are integrated into the design, creating a living experience that encourages a connection to the surrounding environment.

The cabins invite people to immerse themselves in a calm setting, where indoor and outdoor spaces are connected. Features like window gardens and quiet meditation areas demonstrate a thoughtful balance between personal privacy and nature. This design fosters an environment where residents can enjoy harmony in their daily lives.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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