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Textured Interleaved Lumber Cabin Embracing Nature and Serenity

Author:
Luis Enrique Hernandez
Textured Interleaved Lumber Cabin Embracing Nature and Serenity
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The cabin, constructed with textured interleaved lumber and designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings, serves as a peaceful retreat for relaxation and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin features interleaved lumber that enhances tactile engagement.
02
Lavender pots are integrated into the design, adding aromatic elements.
03
A hidden massage bed is incorporated within multifunctional furniture.
04
The cabin can expand its usable area through operable doors and windows.
05
It functions as a small greenhouse, promoting connection with nature.

The design centers on the concept of “THE DOOR,” which serves as a refuge for people looking to escape the noise and stress associated with daily life. Located in a tranquil setting, the cabin functions as a retreat providing a space for mental clarity and emotional well-being. The overall design aims to deepen the connection with nature, enabling occupants to find solace and peace away from the outside world.

Sensory Engagement

A central focus of the design is a multi-sensory experience. The cabin incorporates tactile, visual, olfactory, and auditory elements for a richer interaction. Textured interleaved lumber is used on the walls, inviting touch and enhancing the visual interest of the space. Large windows frame the picturesque landscape, making it both a view and a backdrop, bringing the outside in and creating a continuous relationship between the interior and the surrounding environment.

Aromatic elements play a role as well. Lavender in exterior pots adds a calming fragrance, creating a soothing atmosphere. Sounds from nature, such as the rustling wind and singing birds, also contribute to the peaceful ambiance, surrounding users with gentle background music that promotes relaxation throughout their stay.

Spatial Configuration

Inside, the cabin is designed for varied restful activities, starting with an area of 24m² that can expand to 38m² when doors and windows are opened. This flexibility encourages interactions with nature and supports a range of uses from solitude to gatherings. The layout is practical, focusing on comfort while allowing for meditation practices or leisurely pursuits, blending function with a serene atmosphere that invites engagement.

Furniture and Orientation

The cabin’s orientation positions its back facade facing south, which helps maximize natural light and warmth during the day. Service furniture is strategically placed along the left side, leaving expansive views open to create a sense of spaciousness. The rustic-modern design of the auxiliary furniture, including wicker baskets, complements the overall aesthetics without distracting from the calm environment. Furthermore, a massage bed is cleverly concealed within this furniture, ensuring the functionality while maintaining the space’s tranquility.

The layout also allows for the cabin to double as a small greenhouse, integrating natural elements like bushes and wooden decks that connect to the landscaped surroundings. This thoughtful inclusion harmonizes the cabin with its environment while adding an extra layer to the experience, further enhancing the desired sense of peace and well-being.

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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.

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Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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