Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Trapezoidal Cabin Embracing Nature with Local Wood and Sustainable Design

Authors:
Lorenzo Guzzini, Luigi Guerini, Lorenzo Moretta, Giovanni Nembrini
Trapezoidal Cabin Embracing Nature with Local Wood and Sustainable Design

Project in-detail

The cabin, characterized by its trapezoidal shape and constructed from local wood, integrates a clearing that invites natural light and fosters a connection with the surrounding forest, serving as a private retreat for contemplation.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin utilizes a balloon frame system for efficient construction.
02
Local wood is sourced to enhance environmental compatibility.
03
The trapezoidal central space maximizes natural light entry.
04
A dark transitional entrance creates a contrast to the bright living area.
05
Rainwater collection is integrated for sustainable resource management.

"OZOLINI ORDER in NATURE" presents a thoughtful exploration of how people can live in harmony with the natural world. Located within a dense forest, the design focuses on creating a space where the built environment intersects with Nature. The cabin acts as a central point for shelter and reflection, encouraging deep engagement with the surrounding landscape. Overall, the concept highlights the relationship between light, space, and sustainability.

Clearing as a Concept

Central to the design is the idea of clearing, which offers a transition from the thick forest to an open area that allows sunlight to filter through. This clearing is more than just an architectural feature; it creates a space for quiet thought and interaction with Nature. By emphasizing the clearing, the design highlights the contrast between the lively chaos of the forest and the calm sanctuary of the cabin.

Spatial Dynamics of the Cabin

The cabin is strategically placed on one side of the clearing, utilizing a balloon frame system that helps reduce environmental impact. Wooden slats define the structure, arranged thoughtfully to merge with the surrounding trees. This layout nurtures a sense of perception, directing views and guiding movement while establishing a strong connection between the interior and the outdoors through well-placed openings.

Functional Layout and Circle

Within the cabin, design choices clearly separate public and private areas. The entrance leads to a darker transitional space illuminated by a small window, helping to define the meditative residential core and the sanitary facilities. This arrangement allows for an effective flow of movement while ensuring that all spaces are comfortable and easily accessible.

Design Elements

Important details include a bright trapezoidal space at the center of the cabin overlooking the outer glade, along with a mezzanine sleeping area that enhances the cabin’s height. The fireplace serves both as a warming element and as a cooking space, fulfilling multiple roles within the home. Additionally, a rainwater collection system showcases the commitment to sustainability, promoting efficient management of resources within everyday life.

Wooden slats on the cabin's façade are designed to align with the surrounding trees, creating a visual connection that enhances the relationship between the structure and the landscape. The overall design fosters a deepened appreciation of Nature while providing a practical, welcoming refuge for its inhabitants.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy