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Timber Structure with Colored Glass Facade Enhancing Travel Experience in Siberia

Authors:
Anastasia Stan, Max Friedlander
Timber Structure with Colored Glass Facade Enhancing Travel Experience in Siberia

Project in-detail

A colored glass facade coupled with a steel and timber structure creates a dynamic information hub along the Trans-Siberian Railway, enhancing the travel experience while reflecting the region's cultural heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Located along the Trans-Siberian Railway, it serves as a crucial travel information hub.
02
The structure utilizes a bent A-frame design to optimize spatial dynamics and views.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance both sustainability and thermal performance.
04
A colored glass facade interacts with natural light, creating a vibrant interior atmosphere.
05
Charred wooden shingles contribute to durability and reflect traditional craftsmanship.

## Overview

The Trans-Siberian Hut, situated along the Trans-Siberian Railway, serves as a structural and informational hub designed to enhance the travel experience. Its intent is to provide travelers with insights into both contemporary and historical aspects of the surrounding Russian and Siberian cultures. By harmonizing traditional motifs with modern technology, the hut acts as a vital resource at key railway stops, promoting cultural engagement and facilitating an informed journey.

## Materiality and Design Philosophy

The architectural identity of the hut is defined by its thoughtful selection of materials and form. Structural elements incorporate steel to ensure resilience against harsh climatic conditions, while triple glazing promotes energy efficiency and maximizes natural light. The use of insulated timber panels enhances thermal performance, contributing to a warm, natural aesthetic. A striking colored glass façade not only reflects the regional character but also creates dynamic interior lighting.

The design borrows from traditional Russian architecture, particularly through a dynamic roof structure inspired by onion domes, allowing the hut to blend with its environment. Inside, digital interfaces provide real-time train information, and interactive displays offer insights into local history, making the space both informative and engaging. Sustainable energy approaches, including a responsive heating system utilizing natural light, underscore a commitment to environmental considerations while honoring regional cultural traditions.

## Spatial Configuration

The spatial arrangement of the Trans-Siberian Hut is strategically conceived for user accessibility and interaction. The circular layout encourages social engagement among travelers, with multi-functional spaces including information desks and advisory areas tailored to various needs. An elevated portion of the roof fosters a connection with the surrounding landscape, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the expansive Siberian vista while interacting with the facility.

This design promotes an enriched travel experience by facilitating seamless transitions between information gathering and cultural exploration.

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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
competition now

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