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Sustainable retreat designed with glued laminated timber and passive solar principles

Author:
Adrian mihai Irimia
Sustainable retreat designed with glued laminated timber and passive solar principles

Project in-detail

Nestled in a natural landscape, this retreat showcases a unique triangular design crafted from glued laminated timber, featuring innovative wood shavings insulation and expansive glass façades that seamlessly connect indoor comfort with the beauty of the outdoors.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The cabin's triangular roof design enhances snow shedding and rainwater management, promoting longevity in varying weather conditions.
02
Eco-friendly insulation is achieved through the use of wood shavings, offering superior thermal performance while reducing environmental impact.
03
A large glass façade is incorporated to maximize natural light and provide unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape, fostering a strong connection to nature.
04
Crafted with visible joinery techniques, the structure celebrates traditional craftsmanship while maintaining a modern aesthetic.
05
The multifunctional interior layout allows for flexible space usage, accommodating different activities without compromising comfort or style.
The architectural project under analysis is a wooden cabin designed to serve as a retreat in a natural setting. It embodies a modern architectural approach that emphasizes sustainability, functionality, and a seamless relationship with the surrounding environment. The cabin's design is characterized by its distinctive triangular shape, which not only provides an aesthetically pleasing silhouette but also enhances its practical performance, particularly regarding snow and rain management. This architectural choice illustrates the project's commitment to being both visually appealing and structurally sound.

Functionally, the cabin serves as a space for relaxation and recreation, offering an escape from urban life while still providing essential comforts. The interior layout maximizes usability by incorporating multifunctional spaces that can easily adapt to different needs, ensuring that the space remains fluid and accommodating throughout the day. This adaptability is a fundamental aspect of the design, allowing the cabin to transition from communal gathering areas during daytime activities to cozy sleeping quarters at night.

A central feature of the cabin is its use of engineered wood, specifically glued laminated timber, which provides not only strength but also an inviting warmth to the interior. This material choice is integral to the cabin's overall aesthetic, promoting a strong connection with nature. Large glass elements are thoughtfully integrated into the design, providing abundant natural light and impressive views of the surrounding landscape. This connection is essential for underscoring the retreat's purpose, encouraging occupants to immerse themselves in the beauty of the outdoors.

The discussion of unique design approaches within this project reveals a commitment to sustainability. One notable aspect is the use of wood shavings for insulation. This material choice highlights the project’s eco-friendly ethos while also enhancing the structure’s thermal performance. This attention to detail is mirrored in the cabin’s joinery techniques, which celebrate craftsmanship and visibility. Rather than hiding construction elements, the use of wooden pins and exposed structural connections draws attention to the materiality of the cabin, fostering a sense of authenticity and integrity in the design.

In terms of important details, the interior spaces are carefully rendered to promote a sense of tranquility and spaciousness despite the compact nature of the design. Furniture arrangements are intentionally versatile, with foldable options and built-in storage solutions that provide both functionality and minimalist aesthetics. These design decisions reflect a clear understanding of how occupants will interact with the space and enhance the overall user experience.

In summary, this wooden cabin project exemplifies modern architectural principles through its thoughtful integration of natural materials, adaptive living solutions, and an earnest connection to the environment. It serves as a contemporary response to the needs for retreats that prioritize sustainability without compromising on comfort and style. For readers interested in exploring the nuances of this project further, it is worthwhile to examine the architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas presented in detail. This investigation can provide deeper insights into how these elements coalesce to create a functional and harmonious retreat.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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