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Artful Retreat with Bat Houses and Expansive Glazing Overlooking the Lake

Authors:
Martina Roscio, Carlotta Schembri, Gaia Sicilia
Artful Retreat with Bat Houses and Expansive Glazing Overlooking the Lake
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With its large glazed windows framing the views of Cernostes Lake and integrated bat houses promoting local biodiversity, the design serves as a communal retreat for families and artists seeking inspiration and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Large windows offer uninterrupted views of Cernostes Lake.
02
Integrated bat houses enhance local biodiversity and ecological awareness.
03
Artist's studio provides a dedicated creative space within the retreat.
04
Common area balances private living with communal interaction.
05
Workshop and laboratory designed for natural light and inspiration.

Painters' Lake House, located in Latvia, accommodates two families for a three-month stay. The design combines living areas with spaces dedicated to creativity, aiming to support both family interactions and personal quiet time. Key to the concept is the close connection to the natural surroundings, emphasizing ecological awareness throughout the layout.

Dual House Layout

The project features two houses, each designed for four to five occupants. Each house includes two bedrooms and a shared bathroom, providing privacy while allowing families to be close together. A connecting common area with a kitchen and living room enhances the social experience. This design carefully balances private and communal spaces, allowing for both togetherness and solitude.

Artist's Studio

Integral to the setup is an artist's studio designed to promote creativity. Positioned advantageously, the studio maximizes natural light, offering views of Cernostes Lake beyond. This distinct space is crafted to foster artistic work, aligning with the purpose of the houses. Residents can engage in their creative passions while being surrounded by the tranquil setting of the lake.

Ecological Planning

Outside, the design includes workshop and laboratory areas that feature large windows, allowing ample daylight to enter. These spaces are isolated yet connected to nature, enhancing occupants' experience with the environment. Features such as bat houses installed in nearby trees show a commitment to local wildlife, reflecting an ecological sensitivity that informs the overall design.

Natural Integrations

Throughout the project, large windows blur the lines between inside and outside. This thoughtful design choice brings the beauty of the Latvia landscape into the living spaces. Daylight floods the interiors, creating a feeling of connection with the outdoors. The result is a nurturing environment that enhances daily life while celebrating nature.

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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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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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