Made by modular architecture and offsite manufacturing
The task was to create a transportable cabin that would be constructed in workshop and brought to site. This building had to be reproducible and be able to adapt to different contexts.
The search for a solution led the architects to the design of a modular system. The system defines a structure as a set of individual elements consisting of: columns, floors, walls, roof, etc. In such a way, the building can be transported in assembled or individual elements depending on the situation. The modular system allows to construct different sizes and configurations of the building.
At the base design stage, it is unknown where the building will appear. The only known context is the climate elements such as sun, wind and water. As a result, the roof of the cabin appears to be floating in the wind. It also protects the structure from the heat of the sun and has a shape that collects rainwater, pours it from one plane to another and exhibits water flow. The building adapts to natural terrain by standing on slender legs of variable heights.
The metal used in the construction and façade is non-colored, leaving a unique pattern created during its manufacturing process. This way, all modular cabins of this type have slightly different façade graphics. Inside the metal shell lies a warm natural plywood finish.
The first cabin made its way to the lake island “Apple Island” in Lithuania, with exceptional natural surroundings, characteristic terrain and native trees. This situation revealed the advantages of the cabin’s architecture: the site did not require local construction works, and the visually light volume of the building blended harmoniously into the unique natural landscape.
All interior components were designed individually for cabin. The program of two double bedrooms, living room, kitchen and bathroom is held in 23m². This extensive function was made possible by the use of transformable furniture. The folding glass door opens full width and the interior expands to an outdoor terrace overlooking the lake.
Project: 019 Cabin / Location: Apple Island, Lithuania / Architect: ŠA atelier / Lead architects: Gabrielė Šarkauskienė, Antanas Šarkauskas / Structural engineer: Evaldas Šemeta / Client: MB “Piritas” / Gross floor area: 23m² / Completion: 2019 / Photograph: Vaidotas Darulis, Gabrielė Šarkauskienė
