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Wooden Shear Walls and Scenic Views in a Sustainable Lakeside Retreat

Author:
Hangsong Ge
Wooden Shear Walls and Scenic Views in a Sustainable Lakeside Retreat
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With wooden shear walls that enhance structural integrity and a roof terrace that frames scenic lake views, the design creates a sustainable retreat focused on comfort and private relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Semicircle room maximizes views of the surrounding landscape.
02
Elevated roof terrace ensures privacy while providing outdoor access.
03
Wind turbine positioned away from living space supports energy needs.
04
Roof design incorporates a glass room for year-round usage.
05
Permeable parking areas reduce water runoff and promote sustainability.

The Duality Outlook Romantic Cabin combines modern living with a strong connection to the surrounding environment. Located near a serene lake, the cabin features a design that breaks from traditional shapes, focusing on a more organic form that enhances the relationship between the occupants and nature. The layout supports functionality while also considering sustainability, creating a living space that is both comfortable and environmentally friendly.

Site Planning

The planning of the site includes both permeable and hardscape parking areas. This layout addresses practical concerns while also reducing water runoff, making it more environmentally sensitive. The design incorporates multiple entrances: a main road entrance, an accessible entrance, and a maintenance entrance. This arrangement allows guests to enjoy their experience without interruption from maintenance activities.

Interior Layout

A standout feature is the semicircle room, designed to maximize views of the beautiful landscape. This room invites nature indoors, creating a welcoming and engaging atmosphere. Additionally, the roof terrace offers an elevated space where guests can take in views of the lake. Elevated living areas help ensure privacy, making the cabin feel like a personal retreat amid the natural surroundings.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability plays a key role in the design. A wind turbine is installed away from the main cabin, providing renewable energy without disrupting the views. Solar panels and a stormwater collection system are also included, reflecting a commitment to environmental care. These elements showcase practical approaches to managing resources responsibly.

Materials and Structure

The cabin's structure is supported by wooden shear walls and highlighted posts. These materials give stability while blending visually with the natural setting. The choice of materials emphasizes a connection to the environment, allowing the cabin to fit into its landscape rather than stand apart from it.

Natural transitions from indoor to outdoor spaces underscore a desire to live closely with nature. The design offers a comfortable and thoughtful living experience, inviting residents to engage with the world around them.

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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.

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Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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