Finalist 2019

Base Cabin

Studio Edwards / Base Cabin

Designed by Studio Edwards for startup company Base Cabin. A mobile retreat providing a fresh design approach to the ‘micro-home’ typology.

Designed to be transported on a trailer and wheeled into its desired location. Providing an intimate connection to nature and the great outdoors.

Design Excellence

The design is inspired by the A-Frame cabin & iconic airstream trailer.
The A-frame structurally efficient. Mute in its appearance & clad in black rubber to blend into its surrounds. A cosy sleeping space sits below the A-frame roof with triangular window framing views. The central toilet & shower pod is bathed in light from the roof-light above. A sink and small counter fitted to the rear of the pod provide kitchen functionality with a window ledge adjacent to the large operable glazed facade. The interior is lined with  cork & birch plywood.

Design Impact

Minimal impact to the landscape and easily relocated due to its mobility
Using natural materials for the interior creating a warm, inviting and tactile space
Provides a cost-efficient alternative to compared to that of building a dwelling
Its unique design creates desirability for small space living - promoting the notion of living with less. Increased awareness of sustainability and resources.

Battery powered electricity and composting toilet - reducing environmental impact and ecological footprint

Design Transformation

  • Intimate connection to landscape/ site
  • Flexible orientation for site specific location to maximise views/ light
  • Opportunity for temporary habitation on sensitive and protected sites
  • Minimal impact to landscape - no footings required
  • Connectivity, retreat and opportunity for short-term mobility

Design Innovation

  • Unique structural concept -minimising materiality and structural components
  • Impervious and durable black rubber cladding wraps the form.
  • Minimal energy consumption promoting off-grid and environmental awareness.
  • Efficient use of space - custom designed fittings for kitchen,
    shower and fixtures
  • Flexible glazing configurations for air flow and climate control

Other Key Features

Efficient fabrication technique using pre fabrication of structural components, linings and outer skin

Architectural Design 2019 Finalists

Ian Potter Centre for Performing Arts, Monash University

Peter Elliott Architecture + Urban Design

Frankston Station

Genton / Level Crossing Removal Project

Braemar College Stage 1, Middle School

Hayball / Cundall / WGA / Tract / BSGM

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre Expansion

NH Architecture and Woods Bagot / Plenary Group / Probuild Constructions

Parliament of Victoria Member’s Annexe

Peter Elliott Architecture + Urban Design with TCL

Powell Street House

Robert Simeoni Architects

Penguin Parade Visitor Centre

TERROIR (Architect) / Phillip Island Nature Parks (Client) / AECOM (Project Manager) / Tract/ Wood & Grieve/ Thylacine (Consultants) / Kane Constructions (Builder)

The New Ozanam House

MGS Architects / Accuraco Project Management / IrwinConsult / Webber Design / Outlines Landscape Architecture

Level Crossing Removal Project Caulfield to Dandenong

COX Architecture / ASPECT Studios / Level Crossing Removal Projects / CPB Contractors / Lendlease Engineering

Wunggurrwil Dhurrung

Gresley Abas Architects / Gregory Burgess Architects / REALM studios / Connor Pincus Group / Wyndham City