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Asymmetrical Shelter Constructed With Natural Stone and Thatch Roof Amidst A Lush Landscape

Authors:
Miloni Patel, Shrey Nimbark, Savan Kothadiya, Deepam Prajapati
Asymmetrical Shelter Constructed With Natural Stone and Thatch Roof Amidst A Lush Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed with natural stone and a thatch roof, this asymmetrical retreat in Latvia harmonizes with its surroundings to serve as a tranquil escape for restorative experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with locally sourced natural stone to blend seamlessly with the landscape.
02
Incorporates a traditional thatch roof for enhanced insulation and aesthetic integration.
03
Features an asymmetrical layout centered around a core fireplace that promotes warmth and gathering.
04
Utilizes extensive glass elements to maximize natural light and views of the surrounding environment.
05
Designed to reflect the healing qualities associated with amber, promoting restorative experiences.

### Overview

"A PAUSE" is situated in a verdant landscape in Latvia, drawing inspiration from both the local architectural vernacular and the therapeutic qualities attributed to amber. The project aims to create a space that enhances well-being and fosters a deep connection with nature, serving not only as a shelter but as an environment conducive to tranquility and reflection.

### Spatial Organization and User Interaction

Central to the design is an asymmetrical layout anchored by a fireplace, reminiscent of traditional Latvian architecture. This core enables a thoughtful arrangement of private and communal spaces, facilitating movement and interaction among users while allowing for moments of solitude. The design prioritizes spatial flow, ensuring that different areas serve specific functions while promoting a cohesive and harmonious living experience.

### Material Selection and Environmental Integration

The project employs a carefully considered palette of materials that reflect its conceptual foundations. Stone provides a strong, tactile base; wooden planks contribute warmth and connect the structure to its natural surroundings; and a thatch roof enhances sustainability through insulation and visual authenticity. Glass elements are strategically incorporated to maximize natural light and extend visual connections to the landscape. This choice of materials not only emphasizes durability and ecological responsibility but also pays homage to the traditional building techniques of the region.

### Technical Specifications

The material selections include:

- Stone (300 mm x 300 mm)
- Wooden Planks (300 mm x 1200 mm)
- Thatch Roof
- Beams (120 mm x 250 mm, 150 mm x 150 mm)
- Columns (150 mm x 150 mm)
- Joists (75 mm x 50 mm)
- Perlin (75 mm x 50 mm)
- Rafters (120 mm x 250 mm)

The architectural drawings, including floor plans and elevations, provide insight into the careful crafting of circulation pathways and the balance between solid structures and open spaces, enhancing natural light flow and ventilation while integrating the building with its environment.

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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

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