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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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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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