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Mirror Facade and Solar Energy Integration in Modular Cyclist Cabins

Authors:
Maria paz Debarre, Maria azul Fontao, Eliana daniela Lejtman
Mirror Facade and Solar Energy Integration in Modular Cyclist Cabins

Project in-detail

The cabin's mirrored facade reflects the surrounding landscape while integrating solar energy systems and rainwater collection to create a self-sufficient rest stop for cyclists along the EuroVelo 6 route.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabins utilize a unique mirrored facade to seamlessly integrate with the surrounding landscape.
02
Each unit is designed to be self-sufficient, featuring solar energy and rainwater collection systems.
03
The modular format allows for flexible configurations to accommodate varying cyclist needs.
04
Interior components include multifunctional furnishings that maximize limited space.
05
Transportable by truck, the cabins can be easily relocated along the cycling route.

The rest stop cabins along the EuroVelo 6 cycle route provide a practical solution for cyclists seeking rest and refreshment during their travels across Europe. Positioned in various locations, these modular structures are designed to enhance the cycling experience by offering essential amenities in a convenient setting. The cabins focus on merging with the natural environment, allowing cyclists to enjoy a comfortable stop while surrounded by nature.

Architectural Form and Function

The cabins feature a straightforward design centered around a wet area, which provides necessary facilities for users. A distinctive aspect is the mirrored facade that reflects the surroundings, making the cabins visually blend into their environment. This design choice helps create a connection between the inside and outside, offering users a peaceful atmosphere that encourages engagement with nature.

Sustainability and Self-Sufficiency

Solar panels and rainwater collection systems make the cabins self-sufficient. This approach minimizes the environmental footprint while ensuring energy and water needs are met for each cabin. The design allows for various configurations, making it possible to adapt to specific site needs. This flexibility means the cabins can meet the varying demands of different groups of cyclists.

Functional Amenities

Inside, the cabins are equipped with practical features, including bathrooms, bike laundry facilities, and storage areas. Innovative elements like unfolding panels for insulation and adjustable beds cater to the comfort of cyclists. Additional amenities such as bike racks, sliding doors, electrical stoves, USB chargers, and water storage tanks enhance functionality, making these cabins suitable for a wide range of users.

Mobility and Strategic Placement

Each cabin's design considers transportability by truck, allowing for easy relocation along the EuroVelo 6 route. This aspect enables strategic placement based on cyclist traffic patterns, ensuring the cabins are available where needed most.

The cabins incorporate thermal insulation made from polyurethane. This choice helps maintain comfortable indoor conditions while focusing on energy efficiency. The thoughtful design creates a practical space for rest, essential for cyclists on their journey.

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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

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