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Vertical Garden Cabin Utilizing Timber and Solar Energy in the Rainforest

Authors:
Misak Terzibasiyan, Hasti Serajahmadi, Kim Franken, Livia Rondinia Catini
Vertical Garden Cabin Utilizing Timber and Solar Energy in the Rainforest

Project in-detail

Constructed from timber and designed with a vertical garden, the cabin harnesses solar energy to offer a sustainable living environment in the Brazilian rainforest for both the Kayapo Indians and visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from locally sourced timber, the design reflects indigenous building traditions.
02
The cabin incorporates a vertical garden, enabling year-round food cultivation for residents.
03
Solar panels provide energy, supporting an off-grid lifestyle without reliance on external resources.
04
Movable interior walls allow for flexible space usage based on residents' needs.
05
A rainwater collection system enhances sustainability by providing fresh water for daily use.

The Tribe Cabin is situated in the Brazilian rainforest and serves both the Kayapo Indians and visitors interested in indigenous cultures. Its design centers on sustainability and a strong connection to nature. The cabin functions as a living space that not only accommodates modern needs but also supports traditional lifestyles. The overall concept encourages ecological awareness and fosters a cultural exchange between residents and the forest.

Architecture Concept and Design

The design of the Tribe Cabin focuses on blending with the natural surroundings. Inspired by the flowing forms of the Amazon River, the cabin features a transparent structure that allows residents to feel immersed in the outdoors. Natural light floods the interior, creating a welcoming and bright environment. By prioritizing minimal ecological impact, the cabin reinforces the relationship between human habitation and the forest's delicate ecosystem.



Material Selection

Timber serves as the main building material for the Tribe Cabin, chosen for both its sustainability and its compatibility with local building traditions. Using timber helps to create a warm and inviting atmosphere while keeping ecological considerations at the forefront. Large openings integrated into the design enhance airflow, reducing the need for artificial light during the day and reinforcing the connection to the outside world.



Sustainable Features

A focus on energy efficiency drives the cabin’s design. The incorporation of solar panels allows for self-sustaining energy use, while a rainwater collection system provides a reliable source of fresh water. The option for additional systems, such as sanitation and irrigation, further showcases the commitment to supporting independent living. These features collectively work to reduce the cabin's environmental footprint and simplify life for its inhabitants.



Interior Adaptability

Inside, the cabin offers a flexible layout that can change according to the needs of its residents. Movable walls and adaptable spaces allow for varying activities, from cooking to working and socializing. This thoughtful design encourages a communal atmosphere while also offering personal space when required. The ability to reconfigure the interior supports the dynamic lifestyle envisioned for those who call the cabin home.



A standout feature of the design is the vertical garden, which enables residents to grow their own food year-round. This addition fosters local agricultural practices and strengthens the residents' bond with their environment, making daily life more connected to the rhythms of nature.

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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
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