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Patinated Copper Cabins Embracing Earth Bricks in a Forest Setting

Authors:
Pedro Alcántara, Jose juan Guillamón
Patinated Copper Cabins Embracing Earth Bricks in a Forest Setting

Project in-detail

With a facade of patinated copper and a focus on sustainable wood heating, the design integrates earth bricks and ceramic tiles to create a series of cabins that foster a close relationship with the surrounding forest environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins are designed with a compact footprint to minimize environmental impact.
02
Facades feature patinated copper that naturally blends with the surrounding landscape.
03
Earth bricks are utilized for their thermal mass, enhancing energy efficiency.
04
The modern heating system draws inspiration from the ancient Roman hypocaust method.
05
Interior spaces include strategically placed openings for optimal natural light and views.

The architectural intervention in Ozolini is located between the Ozolini house and Lake Bezdibenė, in a region known for its cold and humid climate, as well as dense vegetation. The design focuses on establishing a strong relationship with the surrounding nature while providing functional spaces that enhance visitor experience. A linear axis connects the house to the lake, from which secondary paths extend toward the cabins, facilitating a natural flow through the landscape.

Design Organization
The layout features a main axis that creates a clear path linking important points like the house and lake. This organization helps preserve the existing vegetation while allowing easy navigation. The cabins are thoughtfully placed along the axis to encourage interaction between people and the natural environment.

Verticality and Facade
The design adopts a small footprint with a compact shape, reflecting the tall Norway Spruce trees nearby. This approach not only allows for maximized sunlight access but also enhances the sense of space inside the buildings. The facade includes openings that frame views of the landscape, creating an engaging connection between indoor and outdoor areas.

Heating System
A notable feature is the heating system, inspired by the traditional Roman "Hypocaust." By using wood combustion, heat is generated and distributed throughout the space. This modern version of an ancient system effectively addresses the cold climate, reducing the need for electric heating and promoting energy efficiency.

Material Palette
The choice of materials enhances both functionality and aesthetics. The facade is covered in patinated copper, which connects the building to its natural surroundings as it ages. Ceramic tiles are included for their thermal benefits, along with earth bricks that help retain heat. Additionally, pinewood elements create a warm and inviting atmosphere inside the spaces.


The design culminates in framed views that invite interaction with the landscape, highlighting the commitment to harmonizing everyday experiences with the surrounding environment.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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