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Prefabricated a-Frame Cabin Built with Laminated Timber and Weather-Resistant Materials for Hikers

Authors:
Nathan Houck, Brandon Martella
Prefabricated a-Frame Cabin Built with Laminated Timber and Weather-Resistant Materials for Hikers
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Constructed with prefabricated laminated timber and designed as a compact A-frame structure, the cabin provides an efficient and environmentally sensitive shelter for hikers amidst the tranquil forest landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using prefabricated laminated timber for quick assembly.
02
Features large glazed panels that enhance natural lighting and views.
03
Incorporates a wood-burning stove for efficient heating.
04
Includes multifunctional spaces that optimize limited square footage.
05
Elevated design protects against moisture and wildlife intrusion.

**Overview**

The Amber Road Trekking Cabin is situated in a forested area, designed to serve the practical needs of hikers while harmonizing with its natural surroundings. This structure acts as both a shelter and a navigational point along trekking routes, offering a balanced blend of comfort and functionality. The architectural approach is rooted in sustainability, facilitating an enhanced trekking experience with innovative and efficient design solutions.

**Architectural Form and Materiality**

The cabin features an A-frame structure, characterized by its steeply pitched roof, which effectively manages precipitation runoff, thereby reducing structural stress. The primary construction material is laminated timber, chosen for its lightweight yet strong properties, ensuring durability and sustainability. Other notable materials include standing seam metal sheathing for the roof, offering weather resistance, and glazed A-frame panels that provide panoramic views while allowing natural light to permeate the interior. Solid wood finishes throughout the cabin enhance the warm ambiance, while a wood-burning stove ensures year-round functionality.

**Spatial Configuration and User Interaction**

The interior layout is optimized for both comfort and efficiency, accommodating up to four occupants with two elevated bunks that foster interaction. Convertible furniture in the living area maximizes space utility, allowing it to function as both a gathering and sleeping area as needed. Strategically placed windows grant occupants views of the surrounding landscape, while dedicated spaces for relaxation encourage social engagement among visitors. The layout also incorporates practical storage solutions for outdoor gear, further enhancing the cabin’s versatility in a wilderness context.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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