Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Star-Shaped Cabins Featuring Sustainable Timber Cladding and Communal Spaces Along Coastal Pathways

Authors:
Grisha Zotov, Sergey Ferley, Jaco de Koning
Star-Shaped Cabins Featuring Sustainable Timber Cladding and Communal Spaces Along Coastal Pathways

Project in-detail

With its star-shaped design and wooden facade that harmoniously integrates with the coastal landscape, the cabins provide a welcoming communal retreat for trekkers along the Amber Road.
5 key facts about this project
01
The star-shaped configuration allows for varied spatial experiences in each cabin while promoting communal interaction.
02
Construction employs cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic integration with the environment.
03
Large windows are strategically placed to optimize natural light and provide unobstructed views of the coastal landscape.
04
The design includes a central communal area ensuring social connectivity among guests while maintaining individual privacy.
05
Water harvesting systems are integrated to support sustainable resource management and minimize environmental impact.
The Seastar project is an innovative architectural endeavor that beautifully marries the functional needs of trekkers with an acute sensitivity to the natural landscape of the Amber Road coastline. This design seeks to enhance the outdoor experience while providing comfortable and practical accommodations for those journeying through the region. By embracing a thoughtful approach to both aesthetics and utility, the project signifies a commitment to creating a sustainable and community-focused environment.

At its core, the Seastar project represents a blending of recreational living with essential comforts, embodying the ethos of simplicity within nature. Designed primarily as a series of trekking cabins, this project facilitates short-term stays for outdoor enthusiasts while promoting social interaction amongst guests. The overall function of the design is twofold: to serve as a refuge for trekkers and to act as a communal hub where people can gather, share experiences, and engage in leisurely activities.

The architectural design consists of multiple cabins that radiate from a central communal space, encapsulating a star-like formation. This unique layout is not merely for visual appeal but serves a functional purpose, creating a variety of spatial experiences while maintaining privacy within individual units. The central area encourages guests to come together, fostering a sense of community amidst the beauty of the surrounding environment. Key amenities include areas designated for cooking and dining, as well as private storage for personal belongings, ensuring visitors have everything they need for a comfortable stay.

The materiality used throughout the Seastar project is particularly noteworthy. A primary feature of these cabins is the wooden facade, which offers not only thermal insulation but also an inviting warmth that complements the organic landscape. Vertical strips of wood add texture and visual interest to the structure, creating engaging light and shadow throughout the day. Integrating metal elements, such as chimneys and cooking appliances, is another practical aspect of the design that enhances functionality while retaining a cohesive aesthetic.

A significant consideration in the architectural design is the terrain of the Amber Road. The project responds adeptly to varying landscape conditions, adeptly accommodating areas that transition from flat expanses to more rugged terrain. This careful calibration ensures both stability and accessibility, allowing guests to enjoy the natural setting without compromising comfort or safety. Moreover, the design incorporates sustainable practices, such as water harvesting systems and efficient energy use, aligning with contemporary environmental concerns.

Unique design approaches embedded in this project further demonstrate its innovative character. The star-shaped configuration enables a distinctly communal experience while also ensuring the individuality of each cabin. This balance is crucial, as it not only enhances the journey for guests but also cultivates a sense of belonging within the larger hiking community. The architectural plans reflect a deep understanding of user needs and environmental factors, ultimately leading to an integrated design that prioritizes both personal comfort and communal engagement.

For those interested in the rich narrative behind this project, a deeper exploration of its architectural plans, sections, and designs is highly encouraged. Engaging with these elements will offer further insights into the thoughtful architectural ideas that underpin the Seastar project. The melding of function, community, and environmental respect within this design redefines how we think about architecture in natural landscapes, making it a compelling examination of modern architectural practice. To grasp the full scope and intention of this project, a closer look at the presentation and design elements is recommended.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy