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A Retreat Emphasizing Biodiversity with Local Plants and Traditional Sauna

Authors:
Seyedeh fatemeh Sedaghat, Fatemeh Kazemi
A Retreat Emphasizing Biodiversity with Local Plants and Traditional Sauna

Project in-detail

Incorporating riparian vegetation and an aromatic garden, the cabin offers a sustainable retreat that fosters biodiversity while providing a traditional sauna experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates an aromatic garden designed for visitor interaction with local plant species.
02
Utilizes native riparian vegetation to enhance local wildlife habitats.
03
Features a traditional Pirts sauna, connecting cultural practices with modern design.
04
Designed with an off-the-grid layout, promoting sustainability and ecological balance.
05
Emphasizes biodiversity by creating habitats for Latvia’s national bird, the white wagtail.

Birdfullnes(t) combines architecture with nature in a way that emphasizes connection and interaction. Located in a landscape rich in biodiversity, the cabin serves as a retreat for visitors seeking a deeper understanding of their environment. The design concept revolves around creating spaces that harmonize with the natural surroundings, allowing occupants to experience the local wildlife and flora.



Biodiversity plays a significant role in the design. Wetlands and riparian vegetation are integrated into the project, providing essential habitats for various local species, including Latvia's national bird, the white wagtail. By enhancing the ecological conditions of the site, the project promotes sustainability and encourages a rich variety of life. This focus on maintaining and supporting biodiversity reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility.



The project features an aromatic garden with native plants that offers visitors a chance to connect with the environment through their senses. By engaging with the garden, occupants gain a broader understanding of the local flora and its significance. This element enriches the overall experience and highlights the role of native species in supporting community well-being.



Drawing inspiration from tree trunks and bird forms, the design aligns with its surroundings. The cabin includes practical features like a traditional Pirts sauna, a fireplace for social gatherings, and a boat dock for outdoor activities. Each aspect of the design is thoughtfully integrated to enhance the user experience, encouraging interaction among visitors while maintaining the balance with nature.



The structure reflects a unique design approach, utilizing organic shapes that complement the landscape. Its careful arrangement prioritizes human experience within the natural world. Each detail—from its contours to its communal areas—serves to remind occupants of their connection to both architecture and the environment. This project showcases the potential for buildings to enhance our appreciation of nature and foster a sense of community.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
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