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Timber Rafters and Epdm Form a Quiet Retreat Amidst Nature

Authors:
Jakub Kender, Margarita Afanasyeva
Timber Rafters and Epdm Form a Quiet Retreat Amidst Nature
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Constructed with EPDM roofing and timber rafters, the cabin minimally integrates into its forest setting, offering a secluded space for living and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with EPDM roofing for enhanced durability in varying weather.
02
Design incorporates zenithal light to promote a connection with nature.
03
First floor allows expansive views, enhancing the meditative experience.
04
Small ventilation window invites natural sounds and fresh air.
05
Micro-piles enable placement on diverse and challenging terrains.

The Reconnection Cabin offers a thoughtful design that prioritizes solitude and reflection. Located in a remote natural setting, the cabin aims to disconnect occupants from the noise of the modern world. Its two-level layout separates living spaces from areas designated for meditation. This separation enhances the experience of each space, allowing for deeper engagement with the environment while promoting tranquility.

Ground Floor Design

The ground floor serves as a quiet living area, intentionally isolated from the outside environment. It creates a private space for individuals to think, read, or relax without disturbances. Natural light enters freely through the skylights, warming the interior and adding an inviting quality to the space. The minimal and functional furnishings keep the focus on personal experience rather than the surrounding decor.

First Floor Experience

Moving to the first floor, occupants find themselves in a space defined by expansive views of the landscape. A large window frames this scenery, allowing occupants to connect with nature and recharge. Ascending to this level symbolizes leaving behind everyday concerns. A small ventilation window invites fresh air and gentle sounds in, enhancing the overall atmosphere and contributing to moments of meditation.

Materials and Construction

The cabin uses durable materials suitable for its natural surroundings. The roof is made of EPDM roofing foil, ensuring protection against weather conditions. The walls feature plywood and mineral insulation, which work together to maintain a comfortable indoor climate. Timber rafters add both stability and a natural look. Additionally, micro-piles allow the cabin to adapt to different landscapes, reducing the impact on the ground below.

Design Details

Each element of the Reconnection Cabin is designed to create a meaningful experience. The placement of windows invites in light while fostering a connection with the landscape. This thoughtful integration helps create a space that feels both open and secure. The cabin encourages occupants to enjoy living while also providing a peaceful setting for reflection, merging comfort with the beauty of nature.

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MICROHOME 2026
MICROHOME 2026
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
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20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
100,000€ Prize / 2026

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

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Competition organisers

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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