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Sustainable Hardwood Cabin Featuring Vertical Gardens and Rainwater Collection in a Rainforest Habitat

Authors:
Misak Terzibasiyan, Hasti Serajahmadi, Kim Franken, Livia Rondinia Catini
Sustainable Hardwood Cabin Featuring Vertical Gardens and Rainwater Collection in a Rainforest Habitat

Project in-detail

A cabin constructed with sustainable hardwood and integrated vertical gardens provides an adaptable living space that seamlessly blends with the surrounding rainforest while promoting environmental stewardship and community living.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin incorporates vertical gardens to enhance biodiversity and promote self-sufficiency in food production.
02
Sustainable hardwood is utilized not just structurally, but also aesthetically, highlighting local craftsmanship.
03
A rainwater collection system is seamlessly integrated into the design, ensuring efficient resource management.
04
The bent A-frame design provides optimal stability while allowing for natural ventilation and light.
05
Flexible interior spaces are designed for multifunctionality, reflecting the adaptable lifestyle of the Kapayo community.
The Tribe Cabin is a carefully conceived architectural project situated within the Amazon rainforest, designed to serve both the ecological and social needs of the indigenous Kapayo community. This architecture represents a fusion of traditional living practices with contemporary sustainable design principles. It stands as a testament to the possibilities of harmonizing human habitation with the natural environment, thereby promoting the conservation of the rainforest and the preservation of indigenous culture.

The central function of the Tribe Cabin is to provide a versatile living space that accommodates various activities intrinsic to the Kapayo lifestyle. Beyond being a residence, the structure embraces the concept of community living by allowing spaces for social gatherings, education, and collaborative work, thereby reinforcing the importance of communal bonds. The design is characterized by its multi-level configuration, which not only optimizes the use of space but also facilitates engagement with the surrounding landscape.

Key elements of the Tribe Cabin include the sustainable use of materials, structural configuration, and interior layout. The predominant material is sustainable hardwood, chosen for its durability and minimal environmental impact, making it ideal for the ecological conditions of the Amazon. The use of large glass panels is another significant aspect of the design, allowing abundant natural light to flood the interior, creating a strong visual connection with the vibrant outdoor environment. This design element emphasizes transparency and offers occupants the ability to experience the changing seasons and weather patterns firsthand.

A notable characteristic of the Tribe Cabin is the incorporation of flexible living spaces. The interior is designed to accommodate different functions, which reflect the varied daily activities of its residents. This adaptability is essential, as it fosters an atmosphere conducive to both solitude and social interaction. The layout promotes an easy flow between different areas, enhancing the cabin's multifunctional nature.

Unique design approaches are evident in the utilization of green walls and a rainwater collection system. The vertical gardens provide both aesthetic appeal and ecological benefits, supporting local flora and fauna while promoting self-sufficiency in food production. The rainwater collection system is integrated into the structure, maximizing resource efficiency and aligning with sustainable living practices. Furthermore, the sloped roofs not only add to the aesthetic dynamism of the cabin but also facilitate effective water drainage, a practical consideration in a rainforest setting.

Through its thoughtful design, the Tribe Cabin embodies the principles of environmentally responsive architecture. The project establishes a direct dialogue between its inhabitants and their environment, facilitating an understanding of natural cycles and promoting sustainable practices. This architectural approach offers a potential model for future projects aimed at addressing similar ecological and cultural challenges.

For those interested in a deeper exploration of this architectural endeavor, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and designs can provide valuable insights into the thoughtful considerations and innovative ideas that went into the Tribe Cabin. Engaging with these elements will enhance understanding of how the design effectively addresses both the needs of its occupants and the surrounding ecosystem, offering lessons that can inform future architectural projects.
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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
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