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Translucent Spaces Created by Slatted Timber and Burnished Brick in a Remote Cabin Retreat

Authors:
Caitlin Young, Ethan Baxter
Translucent Spaces Created by Slatted Timber and Burnished Brick in a Remote Cabin Retreat

Project in-detail

With its slatted timber façade and burnished brick accents, this retreat seamlessly integrates natural elements into a serene space designed for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin features an integrated path that enhances the meditative arrival experience through the surrounding forest.
02
Slatted timber panels provide dynamic play of light and shadow within the interior spaces throughout the day.
03
Burnished brick walls add thermal mass, improving energy efficiency while blending harmoniously with the natural surroundings.
04
The elevation of the cabin on concrete footings protects it from moisture while giving it a lightweight appearance among the trees.
05
Operable windows are strategically placed to ensure optimal ventilation and unobstructed views of the landscape.
The Taupoki Cabin represents a thoughtful integration of architecture and nature, designed to cultivate relaxation and enhance mindfulness. Nestled in a wooded area known as "the Circle of the Trees," this project serves as more than just a physical structure; it embodies a retreat space that encourages users to connect with their surroundings. The architectural design caters to those seeking solitude, reinforcing the notion of a meditative environment that invites contemplation.

The function of the Taupoki Cabin is central to its design philosophy, which prioritizes an immersive experience in nature. This cabin is intended for individual reflection as well as small group gatherings, making it a versatile space suitable for various activities. The architectural layout supports this dual purpose with distinct zones for relaxation, movement, and social interaction.

Upon approaching the cabin, visitors are enveloped by a gradual transition from the forest into a carefully crafted architectural experience. This journey emphasizes the architecture's role in guiding the user’s mindset, fostering a sense of tranquility even before entering the structure. The overall form of the cabin reflects a balance between openness and enclosure, allowing for an intimate connection with the surrounding landscape while still offering protection from the elements.

The materials chosen for the Taupoki Cabin play a significant role in both aesthetic appeal and functional integrity. Rough sawn timber creates a warm, organic exterior that harmonizes with the trees, while burnished brick adds durability and texture. Steel framing is employed subtly, providing structural support without overshadowing the cabin's natural character. The inclusion of operable windows promotes air circulation and allows natural light to filter in, enhancing the interior's welcoming ambiance. Concrete footings elevate the cabin, safeguarding it from moisture and providing a sense of lightness as if it were gently floating above the forest floor.

Unique design approaches employed in this project contribute to its identity as a reflective retreat. The cabin's orientation is intentional, maximizing views and ensuring that occupants feel surrounded by nature rather than isolated from it. This connection extends beyond visual aspects; the cabin's layout encourages users to engage with the landscape through carefully positioned openings that frame specific views. The design also takes into account the sensory experience from the moment one steps onto the path leading to the cabin, promoting mindfulness through a structured yet natural arrival process.

The Taupoki Cabin demonstrates that modern architecture can coexist with and complement the natural environment. The project's thoughtful integration of space, material, and function showcases a commitment to sustainability and ecological awareness. By utilizing locally sourced materials and creating a design that respects the natural terrain, the cabin stands as a model for future architectural endeavors aimed at preserving the environment while enhancing human experience.

For those interested in exploring the finer details of the Taupoki Cabin, including architectural plans, sections, and various design elements that inform this project, a deeper look at the presentation is encouraged. This project encapsulates thoughtful architectural ideas that resonate with principles of sustainability and user-centered design, making it a noteworthy case study for both practitioners and enthusiasts in the architectural community.
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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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