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Rotating Retreats Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wood Shingles

Authors:
Andrius Daujotas, Tautvilė Džiugytė
Rotating Retreats Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wood Shingles

Project in-detail

With rotating cabins constructed from cross-laminated timber and charred wood shingles, this retreat offers a seamless connection to the northern lights while providing adaptable living spaces for immersive nature experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rotating cabins allow customization of views based on user preference.
02
Constructed with cross-laminated timber for enhanced structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide visual contrast and improve material durability.
04
The bent A-frame design optimizes both aesthetics and natural light intake.
05
Acoustic features incorporate sound design, enhancing the immersive experience of nature.

### Project Overview

Located in an area with optimal visibility of the northern lights, the Aurora's Sound design aims to create a harmonious relationship between human habitation and the surrounding natural environment. The project prioritizes the enhancement of auditory and visual experiences, integrating living spaces that are both adaptable and efficient. The architectural form draws inspiration from the concept of sound, resembling a hearing horn, which is reflected in the distinct structure and arrangement of both the cabins and the main building.

### Architectural Elements

**Structure and Form**
The cabins feature a sloping triangular roof that facilitates effective water runoff while optimizing solar energy collection. Large viewing windows provide direct engagement with the northern lights and the natural landscape, fostering an immersive experience for occupants. The modular configuration of the cabins allows for varied layouts, accommodating groups of different sizes and dynamics, with careful consideration given to communal and private spaces.

**Materiality and Sustainability**
The predominant use of wood emphasizes a warm aesthetic and a commitment to environmental harmony. Green roofing materials contribute to functional sustainability, while the integration of solar panels underscores a focus on renewable energy sources, enhancing the autonomy of the individual cabins. This approach reflects a broader ecological awareness within the design framework.

### Spatial Organization

The arrangement of the cabins along the northwest side strategically separates public and private areas to enhance the users' connection with nature while maintaining a coherent circulation pattern. The main building serves as a communal hub, incorporating essential facilities such as a kitchen and dining area, while the surrounding cabins are positioned to shelter against harsh winds and frame scenic views of a nearby lake, inviting moments of reflection and exploration.

Each cabin is designed to pivot 360 degrees, providing flexibility in orientation based on user preference for optimal views and weather conditions. Additionally, the focus on sound design invites occupants to experience the profound ambience of the retreat, balancing social interaction and personal solitude effectively.

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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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