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Rhythmic Windows and Folded Planes in a Compact Timber Cabin

Author:
Daniela Chousal vargas
Rhythmic Windows and Folded Planes in a Compact Timber Cabin

Project in-detail

With a design centered around a folded plane that simultaneously acts as floor, wall, and roof, this compact cabin utilizes local wood and incorporates rhythmic windows to enhance natural light, serving as a functional residential space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Folded plane design integrates floor, walls, and roof into a single structure.
02
Local wood selection enhances sustainability and visual warmth.
03
Rhythmic window placement maximizes eastern light exposure.
04
Loft space offers versatile functionality within a compact footprint.
05
Exterior terraces connect indoor living to the surrounding landscape.

The Folding Cabins project is designed to create efficient and environmentally friendly living spaces that connect with the surrounding landscape. The project focuses on functionality while providing a unique experience for its residents. Its main design feature is the folded plane, which acts as the floor, walls, and roof. This shape not only protects the cabin from strong winds but also allows natural light to enter from the east.

Design Concept

The folded plane provides a unified structure that effectively shields against southwest winds. In addition to this protective function, it invites morning light inside, enhancing comfort and livability. The windows are arranged in a rhythmic pattern, carefully designed to allow maximum sunlight while also contributing to the building’s visual appeal.

Materials and Structure

Local wood is the main material used in the construction of Folding Cabins. This choice supports sustainability by minimizing transportation emissions. The use of wood also adds a warm feel to the interior and ties the cabin to its environment. Steel serves as a critical structural element, particularly for the window lintels and columns. This combination enables the use of large windows, which further connects the indoor areas with the outdoor scenery.

Interior and Spatial Organization

Inside the cabin, a loft space contributes to an open and airy environment. This loft can accommodate various functions, making the space versatile for its occupants. The design also includes exterior terraces that extend living areas outdoors, encouraging a nature-oriented lifestyle. These terraces serve as additional spaces for relaxation and interaction with the surroundings.

Large windows create opportunities for beautiful views, linking the occupants directly to the landscape. This detail emphasizes the theme of connection between people and nature, enhancing the overall living experience.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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