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Timber Cabins Merging Nature and Community with Truss Structures

Authors:
Argita Saliaj, Michael Sarkisyantc
Timber Cabins Merging Nature and Community with Truss Structures

Project in-detail

Timber cabins with wooden truss structures foster a sense of community while seamlessly blending into the natural landscape, providing a tranquil retreat for visitors seeking a connection to rural life.
5 key facts about this project
01
Timber cabins designed for a low environmental impact feature wooden truss systems.
02
A central bonfire platform enhances community interaction among guests.
03
Cabins incorporate large windows for ample natural light and views of the landscape.
04
Underground water storage promotes efficiency and sustainability in resource use.
05
The layout enables flexible living arrangements for diverse visitor needs.

The design located in Venta emphasizes a strong connection to the natural environment while focusing on solitude and the pursuit of meaningful experiences. The setting features picturesque meanders and calm caramel beaches, serving as the backdrop for a plan that encourages stepping away from modern distractions. The concept integrates spaces that support both community interactions and individual retreats.

Site Organization
A carefully planned site layout enhances interaction with the landscape and optimizes how spaces are used. A central bonfire platform acts as a gathering area for social activities, surrounded by cabins designed for comfort and functionality. Key amenities such as parking, storage sheds, and designated areas for barbecues and coffee are arranged thoughtfully, promoting an outdoor lifestyle that blends with nature.

Cabin Design
The cabins are designed for visitors interested in experiencing rural life, reflecting traditional architectural styles. Each unit has an entrance that provides a place for luggage and incorporates a sanitary block for convenience. The kitchenette supports self-sufficiency while the living area adapts to the occupant's needs, allowing for personal touches.

Material Utilization
Timber boarding, wooden truss systems, gypsum board, and concrete framework are among the materials used throughout the design. These choices highlight a focus on durability and sustainability. The warmth of the timber aligns with local building traditions, while concrete provides the necessary strength for the structures.

Natural Light and Spatial Experience
Natural light is an essential component that enhances the overall atmosphere of the cabins. The designs are carefully crafted to allow plenty of sunlight, making the interiors bright and inviting throughout the day. The relationship between the natural environment and built forms highlights the area’s beauty while offering a calm retreat for guests. The gentle curve of the cabin roofs complements the landscape, creating a visual connection to the sky above.

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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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