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Reflective Glass Cabins Within Translucent Frameworks for Cycling Rest Stops

Authors:
Mingzhe Xu, Yaqiu Dong
Reflective Glass Cabins Within Translucent Frameworks for Cycling Rest Stops
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Reflective glass cabins encased in a translucent rod framework provide cyclists with functional rest stops along the EuroVelo 6 route, combining privacy and illumination in diverse landscapes.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective glass treatment enhances the floating aesthetic of the cabins.
02
Translucent rod framework provides natural light and privacy for cyclists.
03
Modular design allows for adaptable configurations based on site conditions.
04
Integrated lighting guides users along circulation paths at night.
05
Each cabin serves a distinct function to support diverse cyclist needs.

The design features a series of modular bicycle stop cabins located along the EuroVelo 6 cycle route, which spans ten countries in Europe. Each cabin is designed to serve a specific purpose, enhancing the experience for cyclists who navigate through varied landscapes. The project emphasizes privacy and usability, showcasing a thoughtful arrangement of functional elements.

Modular Design

Each cabin includes designated spaces for different activities, such as dining, cooking, sleeping, and bike storage. This modularity allows for flexible configurations depending on the site. By thoughtfully organizing each cabin, the design maximizes available space while ensuring that essential services are easily accessible to users.

Translucent Structure

The cabins are enveloped within a translucent box formed by rods of different lengths. This structure provides privacy and defines the spaces within. By day, it creates a sheltered environment for users, while at night, integrated lighting illuminates the pathways around the cabins. This guiding light enhances safety for cyclists, helping them navigate in the dark.

Geometric Distortion

One notable feature is the geometric distortion seen in the cabin designs. This approach adds a unique visual quality, making the cabins engaging elements within their surroundings. The lower sections of the cabins utilize reflective glass, creating a floating effect that allows the structures to blend into the landscape while offering users an intriguing aesthetic experience.

Material Considerations

The materials used in the project include wood for the cabin structures and mirror-coated glass for reflective surfaces. Steel components add essential support, ensuring stability. Translucent polycarbonate is used for the rod framework, allowing light to filter through while providing privacy. These material choices balance visual appeal with practical considerations.

The design shows a thoughtful response to the needs of cyclists, fostering a connection with the natural environment. Subtle illumination along pathways creates a welcoming atmosphere, adding to the overall experience of using these bicycle stops.

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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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