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Amber Accents and Rammed Earth Form a Retreat in the Latvian Landscape

Author:
Annie Hayes
Amber Accents and Rammed Earth Form a Retreat in the Latvian Landscape
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Constructed from locally sourced earth and highlighted by amber accents, the cabins provide a unique retreat that harmonizes with the Latvian landscape while offering a sustainable means for visitors to engage with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed from locally sourced earth, providing excellent thermal performance.
02
Amber accents incorporated to honor Latvia's historical trade significance.
03
Features a conversation pit designed for communal interaction and landscape appreciation.
04
A lofted sleeping area offers elevated views of the surrounding countryside.
05
Includes a green roof that facilitates rainwater collection and enhances sustainability.

The Layer By Layer Cabins are situated in the scenic landscapes of Latvia, designed to foster a connection between the built environment and nature. These cabins provide a retreat for travelers, emphasizing local culture and history through an innovative layered design. By bringing together traditional forms with modern ideas, the cabins reflect Latvia’s rich heritage while encouraging a strong engagement with the natural setting.

Architecture Concept

The design focuses on the idea of layering, both in its spatial configuration and material choices. Each cabin features a steep roof, inspired by traditional Latvian architecture, highlighting the cultural significance of local building styles. This roof not only protects from weather conditions but also signifies the history and stories that are part of the landscape. It offers visitors a chance to appreciate their surroundings from a unique viewpoint.



Materiality

Locally sourced earth serves as the primary material for the cabins, forming the walls that define their structure. Using this material emphasizes sustainability and provides effective thermal properties, enhancing the comfort of the interior spaces. The earthy tones of the rammed earth blend naturally with the coastal landscape. This connection to local materials creates a sense of belonging, allowing the cabins to sit harmoniously within their environment.



Design Features

The design includes elements such as a conversation pit that encourages interaction among visitors. This space invites people to gather and enjoy the views of the natural environment. A lofted sleeping area adds to the layered experience, giving occupants an elevated perspective of the tranquil Latvian countryside. These design features create an inviting atmosphere that enhances the overall experience for guests.



Sustainable Integration

Also noteworthy is the green roof that extends over the entrance, which serves as both an awning and a feature to collect rainwater. This attention to sustainability improves the environmental performance of the cabins, making them kinder to their surroundings. Such details emphasize the design's commitment to eco-friendly practices, further cementing the relationship between the cabins and the natural landscape.



The careful arrangement and thoughtful design of each cabin create an engaging environment that allows visitors to experience the distinctive qualities of Latvia’s landscape. The interplay of architecture and nature enriches the time spent in these unique spaces, providing memorable moments that reflect the charm of the area.

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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.

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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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