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Rainwater Harvesting Cabins with Cross Laminated Timber Structure

Authors:
Thiago Abreu, Camila Reis, Alan Faria
Rainwater Harvesting Cabins with Cross Laminated Timber Structure
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Constructed with Cross Laminated Timber and designed to optimize rainwater harvesting, the modular cabins provide well-equipped shelter for traveling cyclists in various landscapes.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modules designed for specific traveler needs, including overnight stays and quick stops.
02
Double-slanted roofs enhance water drainage and support efficient rainwater harvesting.
03
Communal bonfire areas encourage interaction among travelers.
04
Adjustable foundation system accommodates uneven terrain with minimal soil disturbance.
05
Désile Folding Chairs serve dual purposes as seating and wall decor, optimizing interior space.

The Velocabin Project presents a thoughtful solution for long-distance bike travelers in Europe. Located in diverse natural settings, it consists of three modular units designed to offer temporary shelter. Each module is tailored to meet specific needs, balancing comfort with functionality. The design features a double-slanted roof, which provides a distinctive character while blending in with the surrounding landscape.

Design Concept

Three different modules serve distinct purposes. The largest module accommodates up to four persons for overnight stays, while the medium-sized module supplies basic amenities for quick stops. The smallest module functions as a simple shelter from sun and rain. This flexible setup allows travelers to choose the best accommodation for their needs, fostering social interaction among users who share the space.

Material and Construction

The project employs a Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) structure, which contributes to sustainability and efficiency. This lightweight material simplifies transportation and assembly at various locations. Shallow concrete shoe base-foundations stabilize the modules while reducing impact on the soil. Adjustable screws are used to level the foundations, ensuring the buildings remain steady on uneven ground.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is a core principle in the design. Solar panels and wind generators are integrated, helping to reduce energy consumption. A rainwater harvesting system captures and stores water, emphasizing the importance of resource conservation. These features reflect the commitment to environmentally friendly practices and enhance the overall experience for users.

Functional Elements

Inside the modules, practical details contribute to user experience. The Désile Folding Chairs serve both as seating and decor, making efficient use of limited interior space. Communal bonfire areas encourage socializing among guests, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Firewood storage complements these spaces, ensuring that visitors have everything needed for outdoor enjoyment. This design supports connection and comfort, enhancing the overall experience for travelers seeking rest in nature.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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