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Whirlpool Retreat with Natural Wood and Metal Roof

Author:
Jaco Woltjer
Whirlpool Retreat with Natural Wood and Metal Roof
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Featuring a distinctive whirlpool and a lightweight metal roof, the design offers a cozy retreat emphasized by natural wood elements, providing an intimate escape for two.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features a low bathroom window that frames scenic horizon views.
02
Utilizes a simple foundation with four corner blocks for site flexibility.
03
Incorporates a sheltered veranda that connects indoor and outdoor living.
04
Constructed with a fully insulated timber frame for enhanced energy efficiency.
05
Includes options for solar panels to support sustainable energy use.

The cabin design serves as a retreat for two, set in a natural landscape that encourages relaxation and peace. The central idea of the design is to provide a simple escape from daily life, allowing occupants to connect more deeply with their environment. The layout combines essential living spaces within a small footprint, ensuring comfort and usability without unnecessary complexity.

Architecture Concept

The concept of the cabin is focused on creating a welcoming space that acts as both a shelter and a haven from the demands of everyday life. It includes a living area with a kitchen, a cozy bedroom, and a bathroom, all designed to make the best use of the available space. The inclusion of a veranda serves as an outdoor extension, allowing residents to enjoy nature while remaining sheltered from the elements.

Materiality and Structure

Wood is the main material used in the construction of the cabin. This choice reflects a commitment to harmony with the surroundings. The design features a simple insulated timber frame, which helps with energy efficiency and reduces heating needs. Over time, the exterior wood will weather naturally, blending into the landscape and adapting in appearance.

Interior Design and Features

The interior layout prioritizes both comfort and practicality. Low windows in the bathroom are strategically placed to frame views of the horizon, drawing the occupants' attention to the outside world. Key amenities provide a modern living experience while maintaining the peaceful atmosphere of a retreat. The design allows for additional features, such as a whirlpool, to enhance the outdoor experience further.

Sustainability Considerations

The cabin is built on a straightforward foundation made of four corner blocks, allowing flexibility in site placement and ensuring stability. It includes necessary infrastructure for electricity, water, and sewage. Options for solar panels and an efficient heating system support sustainable living.

The light metal roof of the cabin is designed to reflect the surrounding light, creating a gentle play of brightness. During rainfall, the sound of water hitting the roof adds a soothing element to the experience, enriching the overall tranquility of the cabin and its setting.

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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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