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Pyramidal Cabins Elevated Above the Forest Floor with Sustainable Oak and Renewable Energy Features

Authors:
Khaled Aboutaam, Sadek Saad, Ali El-affy
Pyramidal Cabins Elevated Above the Forest Floor with Sustainable Oak and Renewable Energy Features

Project in-detail

Elevated above the forest floor, these pyramidal cabins constructed from sustainable oak and integrated with renewable energy technologies provide a serene environment for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design minimizes ecological disruption while providing scenic views.
02
Pyramidal shape enhances structural stability and reduces wind resistance.
03
Sustainable oak used for durability and aesthetic warmth in interior spaces.
04
Integrated solar panels and wind turbines support off-grid living.
05
Suspended bridges connect cabins, promoting community while ensuring privacy.

### Overview

Located within a forested area, the "Three-Fold Hermitage" is designed to facilitate meditation and self-reflection in a serene environment. The architectural concept draws inspiration from John Cottingham's "Trialism" theory, which explores the interconnectedness of the physical, non-physical, and meta-physical aspects of human existence. This approach ensures that the cabins meet not only the physical requirements of users but also support mental and spiritual practices.

### Structural Design and Materiality

The design features multiple pyramid-shaped cabins elevated above the forest floor, fostering a sense of isolation conducive to meditation. Each cabin is linked by suspended wooden bridges, promoting a connection to nature while preserving the ecological integrity of the site. The pyramidal form serves both aesthetic and functional purposes, providing visual unity with the surrounding tree canopy and ensuring structural stability. Constructed with a lightweight yet robust steel frame, these cabins are engineered to withstand environmental challenges while maintaining their elevated positioning.

Key materials include durable white oak for the primary structure, steel for strength, and aluminum for lightweight protection. Double-glazed glass enhances insulation and ensures an abundance of natural light inside the cabins. The inclusion of solar panels and a vertical axis wind turbine supports energy self-sufficiency and reflects a commitment to sustainability. The interiors are thoughtfully arranged, with the upper levels dedicated to meditation and the lower levels accommodating essential living functions.

### Integration of Sustainable Technologies

The cabins exemplify a commitment to ecological harmony through a design that minimizes environmental impact. Their elevated structure reduces ground disturbance, while integrated technologies, such as photovoltaic panels and energy-efficient ventilation systems, allow for modern energy needs to be met sustainably. Additional features include lead-acid batteries and water tanks to support an off-grid lifestyle.

The architectural approach underscores a layered understanding of human needs, aligning with Maslow’s hierarchy where psychological and physical requirements are addressed before facilitating spiritual reflection. The design encourages communal activity through flexible access via wooden ladders and suspended pathways, promoting both community interactions and personal solitude amidst the natural setting.

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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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