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Birch Bark Shingles and Reed Cladding Form a Tranquil Retreat in the Baltic Landscape

Authors:
Noemie Dez, Karl Daenke, Elisha Wong, Inta Thomas
Birch Bark Shingles and Reed Cladding Form a Tranquil Retreat in the Baltic Landscape

Project in-detail

Utilizing locally sourced birch bark shingles and reed cladding, the retreat seamlessly integrates with the Baltic landscape, offering a serene environment tailored for yoga and mindfulness practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local birch bark shingles for environmentally sensitive cladding.
02
Incorporates reed thatching to enhance insulation and blend with nature.
03
Features expansive glass panels to maximize natural light.
04
Design includes well-defined pathways that promote mindfulness and exploration.
05
Emphasizes cultural heritage through the use of traditional materials and craftsmanship.

### Overview
Located near the Baltic Sea in Latvia, Austras Koks Retreat is designed to facilitate wellness through practices such as yoga and mindfulness. Conceptually titled “The Tree of Dawn,” the retreat is rooted in Latvian mythology, symbolizing rebirth and vitality. The architectural intent is to create an environment that resonates with the surrounding bogland, emphasizing a strong connection to both nature and local cultural heritage.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The retreat features a distinctive combination of materials that reflect local traditions while promoting sustainability. Reed cladding is employed, providing excellent insulation and allowing the buildings to blend into the environment. Birch bark shingles pay homage to Latvian craftsmanship, enhancing the cultural narrative of the retreat. Expansive glass panels are integrated throughout the structures, maximizing natural light and connecting interior spaces to the landscape. This strategic use of materials not only honors local resources but also emphasizes energy efficiency and environmental stewardship.

### Architectural Layout
The retreat's layout is designed to foster wellness and reflection, with distinct but interconnected functional areas. The Yoga House serves as the central space for various practices, designed to offer panoramic views of the natural surroundings through generous glazing. The Entry Pavilion establishes the main reception area and orientation for guests, while eco cabins provide minimalist accommodations that balance private and communal spaces. Pathways and boardwalks weave through the site, creating reflective routes that enhance the guest experience and foster a deeper connection with the natural environment.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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