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Reflective Aluminum Cabin with Adjustable Light Panels

Author:
Xingchen Wang
Reflective Aluminum Cabin with Adjustable Light Panels

Project in-detail

A polished aluminum cabin elevated from the ground incorporates adjustable light panels that respond to user weight, offering a tranquil retreat for mindfulness and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective aluminum exterior enhances integration with the urban environment.
02
Equilateral triangular plan maximizes stability and visual interest.
03
User-weight activated light panels create dynamic interior experiences.
04
Elevated design provides psychological separation from urban noise.
05
Minimalist interior emphasizes tranquility and soundproofing features.

The cabin concept encourages a reconnection with inner peace in a world filled with distractions. Positioned in an urban environment, the cabin serves as a retreat, fostering mindfulness and introspection for its users. Drawing inspiration from the designer's childhood memories, the space is crafted to evoke the tranquility experienced while observing the sky and its ever-changing clouds.

Spatial Configuration

The cabin features an equilateral triangular plan, which is both efficient and visually appealing. This shape not only gives the structure its unique character but also symbolizes stability and balance. Raised above the ground, the cabin creates a separation from the busy surroundings, making it a quiet place for reflection and relaxation.

Material Integration

Polished aluminum is a key material choice in the design. Its reflective surface helps the cabin merge with the urban backdrop, creating a connection between the building and its environment. The aluminum offers a feeling of privacy while still allowing occupants to engage with the outside world. This duality is important, as it enhances the experience of being in a serene space.

Dynamic Interaction

Inside, the cabin incorporates a hammock and three adjustable roof panels that respond to the weight of the user. When the occupant reclines, the panels open, allowing natural light to pour into the room. This interaction engages the occupant with the design, adding an element of surprise and playfulness. The movement of light from darkness serves as a gentle reminder of the importance of being present in the moment.

Interior Features

The interior maintains a minimalist approach that supports a calm atmosphere ideal for contemplation. Soundproofing measures are incorporated to minimize external noise, allowing users to escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. All these elements are designed to work together, emphasizing the goal of creating a quiet refuge from the outside world.

A trapdoor adds another layer to the design, providing access to an outdoor area. This feature invites users to step outside and feel the connection with nature, all while keeping the sense of continuity with the cabin's interior design.

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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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competition now

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