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Vertical Gardens and Natural Ventilation in a Timber Cabin for Community Resilience

Authors:
Misak Terzibasiyan, Hasti Serajahmadi, Kim Franken, Livia Rondinia Catini
Vertical Gardens and Natural Ventilation in a Timber Cabin for Community Resilience

Project in-detail

Incorporating vertical gardens and a green roof, this timber cabin enhances natural ventilation while serving as a residential and educational space for the Kapayol indigenous community in the Amazon rainforest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a vertical garden to support local biodiversity Utilizes a rainwater collection system for sustainable water management Features a flexible interior layout with movable partitions Includes a green roof for improved insulation and energy efficiency Constructed using sustainably sourced timbers from the surrounding area.
The Tribe Cabin project offers a distinctive approach to architecture that is closely tied to the cultural and environmental context of the Amazon rainforest. Designed for the Kapayol indigenous community, the project emphasizes sustainable living through a careful integration of local materials, modern design principles, and ecological sensitivity. The structure serves both as a residence and an educational facility, promoting a lifestyle that honors traditional practices while embracing contemporary sustainability.

The architectural design features a two-level structure that effectively utilizes the natural landscape. The ground floor is organized for communal activities, allowing residents to engage in cooking and gathering without sacrificing privacy. The upper level provides private sleeping quarters, ensuring individual space. This arrangement fosters a balance between communal interaction and personal retreat.

Sustainability is central to the Tribe Cabin’s design. The use of sustainably sourced timber as the primary building material not only aligns with ecological principles but also provides aesthetically pleasing warmth to the interiors. Incorporating a green roof enhances insulation and supports local biodiversity, reducing the cabin's environmental footprint. An integrated rainwater collection system exemplifies water conservation efforts, supporting a self-sufficient lifestyle.

A unique aspect of the Tribe Cabin project is its focus on flexibility in interior design. Movable partitions allow residents to adapt the living space according to their needs, reflecting the varied routines and communal obligations of the Kapayol people. Furthermore, the inclusion of a vertical garden on the cabin’s façade encourages residents to engage with food production, reinforcing a connection to the land and fostering self-sufficiency.

The project transcends typical architectural design by functioning as a hub for education and community engagement. It not only enhances the quality of life for its residents but also serves as an instructional facility where sustainable practices can be shared and implemented. This dual-functionality reinforces the cultural identity of the Kapayol people while addressing contemporary environmental challenges.

The Tribe Cabin is an exemplary model of how architecture can respond to both cultural needs and environmental imperatives. It illustrates the potential for residential design to be adaptive, sustainable, and educational, creating a vibrant living space that honors indigenous traditions while promoting modern sustainability practices. For further insights, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that illustrate the project's comprehensive approach to modern living in a traditional context.
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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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