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Saddle Roof Cabins With Lightweight Wooden Skeleton and Bonded Lamellas

Authors:
Pavlina Machackova, Jakub Tylcer
Saddle Roof Cabins With Lightweight Wooden Skeleton and Bonded Lamellas

Project in-detail

With a unique saddle roof and a lightweight wooden skeleton, these cabins offer an efficient and functional shelter that integrates seamlessly with the surrounding landscape for trekkers seeking a comfortable outdoor experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Dual functionality allows cabins to transition from closed, abstract forms to open, welcoming spaces.
02
Lightweight wooden skeleton enables on-site construction without heavy machinery, suited for remote locations.
03
Construction utilizes bonded lamellas, enhancing structural integrity and material efficiency.
04
The design features a double-skinned roof with integrated ventilation for moisture management.
05
Cabins are strategically positioned to maximize natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.

Amber Road Trekking Cabins are located within a beautiful natural landscape, designed as functional shelters for outdoor enthusiasts. The project brings together traditional architecture and modern simplicity. The overall design emphasizes minimalism while focusing on user experience with practical and inviting spaces.

Design Concept

The architecture of the cabins features a slightly exaggerated height and saddle roof. This shape gives the cabins a distinct presence, which reminds one of traditional lodges while simplifying their appearance. The facade is designed to blend with the environment, allowing for a smooth connection between the indoor living spaces and the outdoor scenery.

Functional States

An interesting aspect of the cabin design is its two different states. When not in use, the cabins close up, appearing as simple geometric shapes. When occupied, the doors and windows open wide, inviting the surroundings in and creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for guests. This change enhances the connection between the cabins and the natural world, inviting trekkers to immerse themselves in their environment.

Construction Methodology

The cabins use a lightweight wooden skeleton, which allows for easy assembly on-site. This approach avoids the complications that come with transporting large building materials or needing heavy machinery, making it suitable for remote locations. The sturdy framework is made from wood, which has a moisture content of 8 to 18 percent. The design includes options for both grown wood and glued profiles, making sure to utilize materials efficiently while providing strong support.

Roofing System

The double-skinned wooden roof is designed with a non-insulated covering and includes ventilation openings along with waterproofing features. This setup not only serves necessary functions but also ensures the cabins can withstand various weather conditions over time. By integrating these elements carefully, the structure maintains durability while following a consistent design style.

The thoughtful layout of the cabins maximizes natural light and air flow, creating bright and open interiors. This design invites users to enjoy the experience of being surrounded by nature while providing a comfortable and practical shelter.

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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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