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Vertical Cabin Framed by Coniferous Trees in Sustainable Wood Design

Author:
Pequin Romain
Vertical Cabin Framed by Coniferous Trees in Sustainable Wood Design
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Rising above the forest canopy, a slender cabin framed by coniferous trees offers a self-sufficient retreat anchored in sustainably sourced wood, designed for quiet meditation and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rises above the forest canopy for enhanced light and views.
02
Includes levels dedicated to living, meditation, and outdoor observation.
03
Constructed with prefabricated wooden elements for efficient assembly.
04
Designed to be self-sufficient with solar energy and rainwater collection.
05
Maintains existing trees without removal to preserve the ecosystem.

The design is set in the Ozolini forest, approximately 100 km from the Latvian capital. It is a slender, vertical structure that reflects the tall coniferous trees around it. The building rises above the forest canopy, allowing natural light to enter and creating distinctive views. Designed as a private shelter for a single occupant, the structure emphasizes simplicity and connection to nature.

Design Concept

The layout features multiple levels, each serving a specific purpose. The ground floor is used for living, while the other floors include a bedroom, a meditation area, a technical room, and an outdoor roof terrace. This arrangement enables various experiences, with each level offering framed views that engage residents with the surrounding landscape. The roof terrace acts like a lookout point, encouraging a sense of peace and reflection.

Materials and Construction Methodology

Sustainability plays a key role in the design. The building includes solar panels for energy and systems to collect rainwater, aiming to limit its environmental impact. An onsite heating system ensures comfort. The use of prefabricated wooden elements improves construction efficiency and allows for quick assembly, which helps reduce waste and aligns with modern sustainable practices.

Environmental Integration

Thoughtful planning has reduced the project's impact on the natural environment, allowing existing trees to remain undisturbed. This careful approach connects the structure with its surroundings, preserving the ecological integrity of the site. The cabin’s position enhances the user experience, promoting interaction with nature while providing a quiet retreat.

Design Detail

Each level features unique framed views, welcoming light into the interior and allowing occupants to feel immersed in the forest. This connection between the structure and its environment highlights the importance of living within nature. It creates a continual exchange between the user and the landscape, making the experience one of calm and reflection.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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