Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Passive Design With Laminated Lumber and Expansive Glass in a Forest Retreat

Author:
Jimena Gónzalez Sicilia Ana Luisa Chávez Gutiérrez
Passive Design With Laminated Lumber and Expansive Glass in a Forest Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with laminated lumber and expansive glass, the design utilizes passive heating techniques to create a harmonious retreat that integrates seamlessly with the surrounding forest landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced laminated lumber for enhanced sustainability.
02
Features large glass panels for optimal natural light and forest views.
03
Incorporates passive design strategies to minimize energy consumption.
04
Utilizes a bent A-frame structure to blend with the natural terrain.
05
Includes a modular layout for versatility in living arrangements.

# Architectural Design Report: Core Cabin

## Project Overview

Core Cabin is located in Latvia, a region characterized by its rich forests and coastal landscapes. This project seeks to merge minimalist living with a deep connection to the natural environment, addressing the local climatic conditions while providing a tranquil retreat.

## Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The design prioritizes simplicity and functionality, adhering to a minimalist philosophy that encourages residents to disengage from urban distractions. The layout fosters a seamless flow between areas, with an entrance that guides occupants into expansive living spaces. Generous natural light in the sleeping and recreation areas enhances relaxation, while an efficient service module consolidates functional necessities. Large glass façades facilitate visual access to the surrounding landscape, establishing a strong indoor-outdoor connection and promoting overall well-being.

## Materiality and Sustainability

Materials selected for Core Cabin reflect both aesthetic value and functional efficiency. Amber wood is used for interior finishes, contributing warmth to the living spaces, while laminated veneer lumber provides structural integrity. Concrete forms a stable foundation, essential for the varied Latvian climate, and expansive glass elements maximize light and views of nature. Steel is incorporated in the framework, ensuring durability. The thoughtful combination of these materials not only supports the design's modern aesthetic but also aligns with sustainable practices, utilizing local resources to minimize environmental impact.

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

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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