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Laminated Wood Cabins Harmonizing with Forest Light

Authors:
Nicolás Vergara Anguita, Benjamin Smart Larrain, Andres Bezanilla Veas, José Francisco Paolinelli Schulz
Laminated Wood Cabins Harmonizing with Forest Light
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Laminated wood structures rise amidst the forest, designed to capture light while offering spaces for meditation and retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins designed to resemble a lighthouse for orientation in the forest.
02
Central pillar contains essential facilities, promoting efficient space use.
03
Carefully placed openings optimize natural light throughout the cabins.
04
Integration with the landscape aligns cabin heights with surrounding trees.
05
Outdoor terraces enhance the connection with the natural environment.

The design features three cabins situated in a forest: Ozolini, Forest, and Lake Bezdibenė. Each cabin draws inspiration from the concept of a lighthouse, presented as distinct points within the landscape. This approach encourages a strong connection between the buildings and their environment, highlighting the interplay of light and space that creates a peaceful atmosphere.

Design Concept

The project emphasizes light as an essential element in the overall experience. Openings are purposefully integrated throughout the structure to create a flow of light that enhances interaction with the surroundings. By aligning the cabins with the height of the surrounding trees, the design promotes a sense of unity with nature, allowing occupants to feel both grounded and elevated.

Structural Framework

The cabins are organized around two main axes: a vertical axis defined by the central chimney and a helical axis that shapes the arrangement of interior spaces. The vertical design serves both functional and visual needs, anchoring the structure while enhancing its appeal. A central pillar accommodates key facilities, such as the chimney and water installations, and allows spaces to be organized fluidly around it.

Material Use

Laminated wood beams provide the structural backbone for the cabins, ensuring stability and flexibility in design. These beams support the central pillar and contribute to the overall integrity of the structure. Using wood reflects a commitment to natural materials, helping the cabins blend in with their forested setting while promoting a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Lighting Experience

As occupants move through the cabin, carefully positioned openings invite natural light inside, creating a changing ambiance throughout the day. This thoughtful arrangement encourages reflection and strengthens the bond with the outdoors. Up top, unobstructed views from the roof allow for an appreciation of the forest canopy, enhancing the visual connection between the cabins and their natural surroundings.

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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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Competition organisers

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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