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Pyramidal Timber Structures Enhanced By Glulam Beams And Natural Light Integration

Author:
Agnieszka Glama
Pyramidal Timber Structures Enhanced By Glulam Beams And Natural Light Integration

Project in-detail

Pyramidal forms constructed with glulam beams and expansive glass facades connect local Slavic mythology with contemporary design, providing an immersive retreat for travelers on the Carmel shore.
5 key facts about this project
01
Pyramidal shapes enhance rainwater drainage and optimize natural light.
02
Use of glulam beams supports structural integrity while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
03
Integration of expansive glass facades fosters a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
04
Design elements derived from local Slavic mythology inform the architectural narrative.
05
Outdoor decks extend living spaces, encouraging interaction with the natural environment.
The Hag House is a thoughtfully designed architectural project located on the Carmel shore. It serves as traveler accommodations, blending practical lodging with cultural storytelling inspired by local legends. The design incorporates unique forms that evoke traditional Slavic mythologies, particularly a hut shape reminiscent of a chicken coop, thus infusing the structure with narrative significance.

The project is organized around interconnected pyramid-like structures, which offer functional residential spaces while maintaining a dialogue with the surrounding landscape. The layout features paths that encourage exploration and interaction with the environment, creating a cohesive community atmosphere. This architectural strategy enhances the visitor experience, allowing guests to engage with both the natural setting and local culture.

Architectural Features and Materiality

A key element of the Hag House is its distinctive use of materials, which include glulam beams, oaken wood, glass panels, and pine wood. The glulam beams provide structural integrity and add an organic aesthetic, while oaken wood is utilized for stairs, floors, and banisters, contributing warmth to the interiors. The strategic incorporation of glass panels invites natural light into the spaces, blurring the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, and enhancing the visual connection with the site.

The form of the building is characterized by its pyramid roofs, aiming to optimize rainwater drainage while allowing ample light into the interior spaces. External staircases lead to decks that facilitate outdoor activities and engagement with the natural surroundings. The thoughtful material selection and architectural elements collectively create an inviting environment while addressing functional requirements.

Narrative-Driven Approach

What distinguishes the Hag House is its narrative-driven design approach, rooted in local legends. This connection to cultural stories is embedded in the architecture, creating a distinctive point of interest for visitors. The interior configuration is designed to maximize functionality for travelers, with clearly defined spaces for kitchens, dining areas, bedrooms, and bathrooms. The attention to detail in both form and function ensures that the project resonates with the intended audience while fostering a sense of place.

While the Hag House project exemplifies modern architectural design, it effectively communicates the richness of local lore and promotes sustainable interaction with nature. By mirroring the region's cultural narratives and environmental setting, this project stands apart from conventional lodging designs, offering guests a contextual and immersive experience.

For further insights into the Hag House, including architectural plans, sections, and other design elements, readers are encouraged to explore the project's detailed presentation. The exploration of this architectural endeavor provides a deeper understanding of how innovative design and cultural storytelling can coexist in a cohesive project.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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