Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Hexagonal Shelter Crafted From Phenolic Panels With Natural Wood Accents

Authors:
Laboratorio Sustentable, Ricardo Lamagni, Tatiana Rohr, Juan Duarte
Hexagonal Shelter Crafted From Phenolic Panels With Natural Wood Accents

Project in-detail

Crafted from innovative phenolic panels and featuring a hexagonal form, the cabin integrates natural wood elements and sustainable building practices to serve as a flexible retreat on the coast.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from phenolic plasticized paneling for enhanced durability and insulation.
02
Incorporates movable interior elements to allow for flexible spatial configurations.
03
Features double-glazed glass panels to optimize thermal efficiency and views.
04
Utilizes sealed acrylic bubbles for ambient lighting, reminiscent of natural amber.
05
Designed with aerodynamic shapes to effectively manage coastal wind dynamics.

The "Amber Soul" project is a compact refuge cabin designed specifically for coastal environments. Drawing inspiration from the geological properties of amber stones, this architectural endeavor features a distinctive morphology that seeks to harmonize with its beach setting. The project aims to serve as a functional resting place for visitors while embodying the aesthetic qualities of its natural surroundings.

Architecturally, the design employs a hexagonal configuration which encourages an open and flexible interior spatial arrangement. This layout facilitates varied uses, from family retreats to artistic residencies. The cabin is intended to operate year-round, demonstrating robust adaptability to diverse climatic conditions typical of seaside locations. Various sustainable building practices have been integrated into the architectural framework, aligning the project with contemporary ecological standards.

Unique Design Approaches

A notable aspect of the "Amber Soul" project is its material selection. Primarily, the structure utilizes phenolic plasticized paneling for its exterior, ensuring durability and insulation. Natural wood is employed extensively for its structural integrity and aesthetic warmth, while oriented strand board (OSB) contributes strength and versatility. The incorporation of double-glazed glass panels enhances thermal efficiency and provides expansive views of the surrounding landscape. Sealed acrylic bubbles are integrated into the design to create ambient lighting effects reminiscent of natural amber.

The project also showcases a commitment to environmental sustainability through features like solar panel integration, advanced ventilation systems, and efficient rainwater management. The aerodynamic shaping of the cabins is a strategic choice designed to manage coastal wind dynamics, enhancing both functionality and comfort.

Spatial Configuration and Functionality

The interior space of the "Amber Soul" cabin is designed to be agile and responsive to user needs. Movable elements, such as adaptable furniture pieces, enable occupants to reconfigure the space according to their preferences. This flexibility enhances the functionality of the cabin, making it suitable for a range of activities, from quiet relaxation to collaborative artistic endeavors.

Permanent identification elements incorporated into the exterior design create a sense of place, allowing the cabins to resonate within the local community context. The amber-colored lighting used throughout the cabin adds to the tranquil atmosphere, offering a soft glow that complements the natural environment.

For those interested in a detailed exploration of "Amber Soul," it is advisable to review architectural plans, sections, and designs for a comprehensive understanding of the project. The interplay of materials, innovative design strategies, and a focus on integration with the coastal landscape make this project an exemplary model within architectural practice.

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

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

`

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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