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Timber Louvers and Central Courtyard in a Forest Retreat

Authors:
Zhi Xing Lim, Keqing Ng, Xiao Tung Yip, Jia En Lam
Timber Louvers and Central Courtyard in a Forest Retreat
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With a central tube courtyard and adaptable timber louvers for privacy, the cabin offers couples a tranquil retreat that seamlessly connects them to the surrounding forest environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Layered walls provide adjustable privacy for occupants.
02
A central tube courtyard serves as a calming water feature and fireplace.
03
Timber louvers enhance natural light while blending with the forest.
04
Rooftop amenities include a sunset tower for panoramic views.
05
Designed specifically for couples to foster intimacy and connection.

The Love Nest cabin is located in a quiet forest, designed specifically for couples looking to strengthen their romantic bonds. The retreat focuses on creating a private and intimate environment that encourages connection with nature. Inspired by the idea of birds building nests, the cabin invites occupants to experience love and togetherness in a serene setting.

Layered Walls

The design features two layers of walls, allowing for different levels of privacy. This structure enables occupants to customize their experience based on their needs. The flexibility of the design is suitable for a diverse range of visitors and enhances the comfort of those who stay within its space. When the walls are opened, the cabin becomes transparent, offering sweeping views of the grassland and revealing the stars overhead at night.

Central Courtyard

At the center of the cabin lies a tube courtyard that serves several functions. This area acts as both a calming water feature and a fireplace, providing warmth during cooler temperatures. The courtyard is essential for creating a tranquil atmosphere. It also serves as the focal point of the interior layout, bringing the living spaces together around it. This feature encourages a connection with nature and promotes relaxation.

Spatial Layout

The arrangement of spaces within the Love Nest allows for easy movement between indoor and outdoor areas. Important zones, such as living spaces, sleeping areas, and communal spots, are designed to foster various social interactions. This layout invites couples to explore their natural surroundings, whether taking leisurely walks or enjoying quiet moments in grassy clearings. This connection with nature enhances the overall experience of the retreat.

Rooftop Features

On the rooftop, amenities such as a hot tub, barbecue area, and a sunset tower enhance the usable space. These features provide areas for social gatherings and relaxation while offering impressive views of the landscape. Couples can enjoy their time together while taking in the beauty of their surroundings.

The outer vertical timber louvers provide an important design element, offering structural support and contributing to the cabin's overall aesthetic. These louvers create a natural feel, adding texture and warmth to the structure while harmonizing it with the surrounding environment.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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