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Birch Plywood Cabins Elevated on Stilts Along The Amber Road Trail

Authors:
Jingle Chen, Shahn Griffen
Birch Plywood Cabins Elevated on Stilts Along The Amber Road Trail

Project in-detail

Elevated on stilts and constructed with birch plywood and Charnwood pine, the cabins along the Amber Road trail offer a modern retreat that seamlessly integrates into the natural landscape, inviting guests to experience the tranquility of the Latvian wilderness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design minimizes site disruption while providing panoramic views.
02
Birch plywood interiors create a warm, inviting atmosphere unique to the region.
03
Charnwood pine cladding is treated for enhanced weather resistance.
04
Large glazing integrates indoor spaces with the surrounding forest, fostering connection.
05
Layout promotes adaptability with flexible spaces for varying resident needs.
The Dzintrars Cabins project, located along the Amber Road trail in Latvia, epitomizes a harmonious blend of modern architecture with the natural landscape. Designed to serve as retreats, these cabins symbolize a contemporary interpretation of traditional Latvian dwellings while offering a unique respite from the fast-paced urban lifestyle. With a focus on sustainability and a deep connection to the surrounding environment, the project showcases a thoughtful approach to architecture that prioritizes both function and aesthetic appeal.

Functionally, the Dzintrars Cabins cater to visitors seeking a tranquil getaway among forests and coastal vistas. They provide an immersive experience that encourages engagement with nature, enabling occupants to relax while enjoying the serene landscape. The design fosters a sense of community and interaction through shared spaces, allowing for both intimate gatherings and quiet reflection.

Important elements of the project include the careful use of materials, which play a vital role in establishing the cabins’ character and functionality. Birch plywood is the primary material used for interior finishes, imparting a warm, inviting tone to the spaces. The use of Charnwood pine for external cladding not only enhances durability but also integrates the structure visually with the natural surroundings. These materials were chosen not only for their aesthetic qualities but also for their sustainability, sourced locally to reduce environmental impact and ensure that the cabins resonate with their context.

The spatial organization of the interiors is another critical aspect of the design. The ground floor is designed to welcome residents into a flowing living area that emphasizes openness and connectivity. Large glazing openings—strategically placed—allow natural light to permeate the cabin, creating a seamless transition between indoor comfort and the outdoor environment. The layout promotes a flexible use of space, accommodating various activities while ensuring that each area serves a distinct purpose. The bed nook provides a cozy sleeping area, maintaining privacy without isolating the occupant from communal experiences.

The loft area introduces verticality to the design, optimally utilizing available space while giving residents a sense of elevation and perspective over the landscape. The interplay between public and private realms within the cabins adds to the experience, allowing for both social interaction and solitude as desired. External timber decking serves to extend living spaces outdoors, promoting a lifestyle that is both active and relaxed, where occupants can fully enjoy their natural surroundings.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the Dzintrars Cabins, particularly in the emphasis on sustainability and integration with the landscape. The cabins are elevated on stilts, a design choice that minimizes site disruption and ensures stability in varying weather conditions. This design not only respects the ecological balance of the area but also encourages admiration of the fluctuating beauty of the forest and sea below. Moreover, the choice of reliable and eco-friendly insulation materials ensures that the cabins remain comfortable year-round, highlighting the project's commitment to environmental sustainability.

The Dzintrars Cabins project stands out in its modern take on rustic architecture, showcasing a pragmatic approach that reveres and reflects the Latvian landscape. The design principles employed here illustrate a dedication not just to creating habitable space but to fostering a deeper connection with nature and community. It offers a thoughtful architectural response to the needs of contemporary society while remaining attuned to historical context.

For those interested in further exploring this architectural endeavor, it is worthwhile to review the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas presented which provide deeper insights into the innovative approaches taken in this project. The Dzintrars Cabins exemplify how architecture can not only meet functional needs but also enhance one's experience and connection to the environment.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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