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Amber Glass And Warm Timber Create A Serene Retreat Experience

Authors:
Nicolae Linzon Cespedes Hochstätter, Jhoselin Paola Dorado Frías
Amber Glass And Warm Timber Create A Serene Retreat Experience

Project in-detail

Constructed with amber-colored glass and warm timber, the retreat seamlessly integrates into its natural surroundings while providing a tranquil space for meditation and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with amber-colored glass to enhance natural light filtration.
02
Features a bent A-frame design, optimizing structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
03
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels, minimizing environmental impact during construction.
05
Strategically positioned large windows provide unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape.

**Overview**
Located in Latvia's tranquil landscapes, Quiescence is designed as a retreat to promote relaxation and interaction with nature. The primary intent is to create a harmonious environment that enables users to explore and meditate while accessing modern amenities. The spatial organization and material selection reflect an intention to forge meaningful connections between the occupants and their natural surroundings.

**Spatial Strategy**
The layout of Quiescence is carefully structured, comprising distinct functional areas that facilitate both communal and individual experiences. The central social area serves as a hub for interaction, promoting connectivity to outdoor spaces and an openness that invites the natural environment in. Guest accommodations are designed to provide comfort and unique orientations toward the landscape, allowing varying perspectives of the surrounding beauty. Additionally, practical spaces such as baths and hallways are strategically positioned to ensure accessibility and convenience.

**Material Emphasis**
The project incorporates a selection of materials that align with both aesthetic and environmental considerations. Wood is utilized as the primary structural material, offering a warm visual appeal while minimizing ecological impact. Amber-colored glass, significant to Latvian culture, enhances ambiance through filtered light, further enriching the internal experience. Polyethylene foam insulation is employed to enhance energy efficiency and climate resilience. The design also features wooden paneling for exterior cladding and interior surfaces, fostering a consistent aesthetic throughout. Innovative structural elements include a roof design reminiscent of a bird in flight, facilitating rainwater collection, while large windows provide opportunities for views and foster a strong connection to the landscape.

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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
competition now

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