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Rotating Glass Walls and Eco-Friendly Timber in a Versatile Cyclist Haven

Authors:
Alice Loumeau, Iris Sene
Rotating Glass Walls and Eco-Friendly Timber in a Versatile Cyclist Haven

Project in-detail

With rotating glass walls that enhance connectivity to the environment and sustainably sourced timber forming its structure, the cabin serves as a flexible resting point for cyclists immersed in nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rotating wall system allows for flexible spatial configurations.
02
Elevated design minimizes ecological impact and enhances views.
03
Constructed using cross-laminated timber for structural efficiency.
04
Charred wooden shingles provide weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
05
Large glass panels foster a seamless connection with the surrounding environment.

## Overview

This cabin design is conceptualized as a stopover for travelers, especially cyclists, navigating various European landscapes. Its design merges functionality with an aesthetic that respects its environment, aiming to provide both a temporary refuge and a navigation aid. The cabin intends to facilitate exploration and offer a momentary respite within natural settings while adapting to diverse terrains, from mountainous regions to riversides.

## Materiality and Structure

The cabin employs a carefully selected palette of sustainable materials to align with its intended use. The primary structural element is wood, chosen for its warmth and natural appeal, while extensive use of glass for walls fosters transparency, enhancing the connection between the interior and the surrounding environment. Additionally, metal components, possibly steel or aluminum, are incorporated for structural support and weather resistance, ensuring durability. Composite materials contribute to the roof construction, optimizing thermal performance.

The design features a modular form that allows for adaptability to different landscapes and user needs. The rotating components enable the cabin to expand when opened, revealing outdoor elements and creating an immersive experience for occupants. Key functional spaces include dedicated storage for bicycles and gear, flexible seating and sleeping areas, and a rotating wall system that increases exposure to views and airflow while maintaining privacy. The sloped roof design facilitates rainwater drainage and promotes natural ventilation, crucial for comfort across varying weather conditions. The structure is elevated to minimize ecological impact while offering unobstructed views of the landscape.

## User Engagement and Sustainability

The design prioritizes user interaction by accommodating various lengths of stay, featuring spaces for rest, meals, and quiet contemplation, thereby enhancing the overall experience with nature. Large glass panels invite the external environment indoors, reinforcing the relationship between the occupants and their surroundings.

The focus on sustainable practices is evident through the selection of renewable materials and a flexible design that reduces the ecological footprint. The cabin not only serves as a temporary lodging facility but also acts as a space for community engagement and cultural exchange, encouraging local exploration and outdoor activities. This dual adaptability emphasizes the cabin's role as a dynamic system that responds to both user needs and environmental contexts.

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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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