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Translucent Polycarbonate Facade and Modular Flexibility in a Small Retreat

Authors:
Anne Mooney, John Sparano, Jun Li
Translucent Polycarbonate Facade and Modular Flexibility in a Small Retreat

Project in-detail

A polycarbonate facade enhances the Amber Cabin’s connection to its natural surroundings while offering modular, flexible spaces for short-term accommodation in Latvia.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent polycarbonate panels create a luminous effect while providing thermal insulation.
02
The cabin incorporates modular furniture that allows for flexible interior configurations.
03
Strategic window placement maximizes natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Accessible via operable doors on both facades, enhancing indoor-outdoor connectivity.
05
Constructed with durable materials that require minimal maintenance in outdoor environments.
The Amber Cabin is an architectural project designed to harmonize with its natural environment while providing basic accommodation for travelers. Located in Latvia, the cabin emphasizes simplicity and functional spaces while also offering a connection to the surrounding landscape. Its design caters to short-term stays, ensuring comfort for up to four occupants, making it suitable for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

The cabin comprises essential amenities, including sleeping arrangements, a cooking area, and communal spaces. It features a modular layout that effectively utilizes limited space and offers adaptability for different user needs.

Design Approach and Materiality

One of the notable aspects of the Amber Cabin is its use of tinted polycarbonate panels in the façade. This choice not only aligns with the project's name, reflecting the aesthetic qualities of amber, but also serves functional purposes such as enforcing thermal insulation and allowing significant daylight penetration. The interior is predominantly constructed with plywood and wood, creating a warm atmosphere while enhancing structural integrity. Steel connections provide stability, ensuring the cabin can withstand diverse environmental conditions.

This architectural design emphasizes outdoor integration, with operable doors on both the south and north façades that encourage seamless transitions between interior and exterior spaces. This design choice allows occupants to experience nature while being protected from inclement weather conditions. The adaptable configurations of the interior promote versatility, making the cabin suitable for various settings, whether in dense forests or alongside coastal landscapes.

Functional and Aesthetic Integration

The Amber Cabin illustrates a functional yet minimalist design philosophy, where each element serves a specific purpose. The layout can be adjusted to accommodate different sleeping arrangements, optimizing space usage. The design encourages occupants to engage with their surroundings, facilitated by ample daylight and the warm ambiance created by the lighting design at night.

Overall, the Amber Cabin stands out in its commitment to sustainability and simplicity within its architectural approach. The strategic material choices and adaptable designs create a structure that seamlessly merges with its environment while fulfilling the needs of its users.

To gain further insights into the Amber Cabin, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its unique architectural ideas.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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