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Natural Wood Cabins with Pile Foundations Embracing Tranquil Valley Views

Author:
Souna Junior Brandon
Natural Wood Cabins with Pile Foundations Embracing Tranquil Valley Views
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Set against a picturesque valley, the arrangement of wood cabins connected by green pathways underscores a commitment to sustainability through the use of aluminum roofing and glass wool insulation, creating a serene space for meditation and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins are positioned to maximize views of the surrounding valley.
02
Green pathways link each cabin, enhancing accessibility and promoting tranquility.
03
Aluminum roofing complements the natural landscape while offering durability.
04
Glass wool insulation provides effective thermal performance.
05
Piles are used for foundation, preserving the site's natural topography.

The design is set in a natural environment, focusing on creating spaces that promote a strong connection between the built and natural worlds. It aims to enhance visitor experiences by thoughtfully positioning structures to offer views of a valley that are central to meditation and relaxation. The integration of cabins and green spaces encourages a sense of calm and reflection, harmonizing with the landscape and its contours.

Site Integration

The layout features cabins placed perpendicularly to the landscape, which optimizes the views of the valley. This arrangement not only allows for ample sightlines but also aligns well with the natural topography, fostering a closer relationship with the environment. Pathways made of interconnected green spaces encourage visitors to move freely and explore, creating areas for quiet meditation and restful moments.

Materiality

The project primarily uses wood and metal posts for the foundations, which provide necessary support while maintaining a natural look. The roof is made with aluminum sheeting, giving a modern aspect that fits well with the scenery. Insulation is accomplished through glass wool, which aids in energy efficiency and supports environmentally friendly practices.

Structural Considerations

To adapt to the site's varying elevations, the design employs pile foundations. This construction method helps preserve the natural landscape during building, as it avoids extensive digging and alteration of the earth. This thoughtful approach respects the environment and maintains the integrity of the site.

Open spaces and intentional sightlines encourage connections with the environment. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves fully in the tranquil setting. This careful blending of structure and landscape fosters an atmosphere of contemplation and well-being. The overall design prioritizes a deep appreciation for nature, creating a space where individuals can find peace and retreat.

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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

Open architecture competitions

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Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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