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Maximizing Natural Light with Eco Cladding and Glass Elements in a Small Retreat

Authors:
Sebastian Ples, Mona Haraldsson
Maximizing Natural Light with Eco Cladding and Glass Elements in a Small Retreat
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With its eco cladding and expansive glass elements, this small cabin emphasizes energy efficiency and natural lighting, designed as a self-sufficient retreat for modern living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features an overhead water tank integrated into the design.
02
Incorporates extensive use of glass to optimize natural lighting.
03
Utilizes eco-friendly wall cladding for enhanced hygiene.
04
Includes both an underground water tank and water pump for self-sufficiency.
05
Prioritizes natural ventilation throughout the living spaces.

The ATTEFALSHUS ECO CABIN is a contemporary retreat located in a scenic landscape, designed for sustainable living. It prioritizes self-sufficiency while creating a space that blends with its natural setting. The main idea revolves around using renewable resources effectively, making it a practical choice for modern living.

Design and Structure

The cabin features four distinct elevations, labeled A, B, C, and D. Each elevation plays a crucial role in allowing natural light to enter and providing views of the surrounding landscape. The design carefully considers how the building interacts with its environment, ensuring that it feels connected to the outdoors.

Sustainable Features

Key elements include solar panels dedicated to heating water and generating electricity. This system reduces dependence on traditional energy sources. Additionally, an overhead water tank and a water pump support the cabin's self-sustaining nature, ensuring a steady water supply for everyday use.

Interior Layout

Inside, the layout promotes natural ventilation and efficient use of space. The ground floor includes a living room of 13.425 square meters, a bathroom measuring 2.624 square meters, and two bedrooms of 6.474 square meters and 12.126 square meters. This arrangement creates a balanced environment, combining areas for social interaction with tranquil spaces for rest.

Material Considerations

The cabin’s wall cladding is designed to be eco-friendly and hygienic, underlining the importance of materials in sustainable design. Glass is used strategically to enhance natural light and provide a sense of openness. This choice enriches the interior experience, allowing occupants to feel connected to the natural surroundings.

The design incorporates practical features that allow for comfortable living while remaining in tune with ecological principles, enabling occupants to engage with nature in an inviting and meaningful way.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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