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Timber Retreat With Sustainable Cross Ventilation Among Cycling Trails

Authors:
Paige Michutka, Zoe Evans, Alyssa Pack
Timber Retreat With Sustainable Cross Ventilation Among Cycling Trails

Project in-detail

Incorporating renewable timber and a central bike storage tower, the cabin offers a sustainable resting place for cyclists along the EuroVelo 6 route, enhancing the connection between indoor comfort and the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a screw pile foundation to minimize site disturbance.
02
Features an operable table that enhances social interaction among guests.
03
Utilizes locally sourced renewable timber for all structural components.
04
Includes a dedicated bike storage tower central to the cabin's design.
05
Maximizes natural airflow through cross ventilation and operable screens.

The EuroVelo 6 cabin is located along a scenic biking route characterized by its natural landscapes and water features. Designed as a rest stop for cyclists, the cabin offers both comfort and functionality. The concept centers on a modular structure that connects well with its environment, making it a fitting place for travelers to take a break.

Architecture and Structure

The cabin features a light wooden frame supported by a screw pile foundation, which allows it to adapt to different types of terrain. This foundation minimizes disturbance to the surrounding landscape. The cabin is divided into three prefabricated modules: sleeping quarters, a living area, and a wet room, which facilitates straightforward assembly and adjusts to various site requirements.

Interior Design and Functionality

Inside, the space includes an operable table, which can be used for dining and social gatherings. The living area opens directly to an outdoor wooden deck that provides views of the nearby river and firepit. This connection between indoor and outdoor spaces encourages interaction among guests and enhances their experience with the natural setting.

Environmental Adaptability

Cross ventilation is an important aspect of the cabin's design, allowing for fresh airflow during the warmer months. The inclusion of operable screens helps provide security and protection from the elements in colder weather. This design choice ensures a comfortable environment while reducing the need for mechanical heating or cooling systems.

Material Use and Sustainability

Locally sourced and renewable timber is used for the cabin's walls and structural elements, reinforcing the focus on sustainability. This material choice not only supports ecological values but also contributes to a consistent look that harmonizes with the surrounding area.

The bike storage tower at the cabin's center highlights the importance of cycling along the EuroVelo 6 route. It is both practical and visually engaging, enhancing the cabin's overall usability while remaining in line with the architecture's emphasis on a natural aesthetic. The combination of these elements reflects a design that respects both the environment and the needs of its users.

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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

Enter an open architecture
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