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Cantilevered Glazing Merging Wood and Stone In A Community Conference Center

Authors:
Jared Winchester, Farrokh Rostami Kia, Cory Greenfield
Cantilevered Glazing Merging Wood and Stone In A Community Conference Center

Project in-detail

A cantilevered roof of glazing extends over natural stone pathways and charred wood facades, creating a harmonious balance with the surrounding landscape while providing a multifunctional space for community gatherings and events.
5 key facts about this project
01
A cantilevered roof design enhances natural light penetration and outdoor connectivity.
02
Charred wood cladding minimizes maintenance while providing a visually appealing texture.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels offer structural integrity and sustainability.
04
Landscape integration features granite pathways that echo local geological formations.
05
Flexible interior spaces allow for adaptable configurations to accommodate various events.

## Project Overview

The Hill and Forest Conference Center is situated in Kipsala, Riga, Latvia, strategically designed to merge cultural significance with functional versatility. The project addresses the demand for a comprehensive space that accommodates a variety of community and international events while reflecting the surrounding hilly landscape and dense forest environment.

## Architectural Strategy

### Material Composition

Key materials have been thoughtfully selected to enhance both the aesthetic and functional qualities of the conference center. Glass is extensively employed to maximize natural light and foster a connection with the outdoors. Wood features prominently throughout the structure, highlighting its warmth and sustainability, and is utilized in both structural and decorative applications. Concrete serves as a foundational element, ensuring durability, while green roof systems contribute to insulation and increase biodiversity. Locally sourced stone and granite provide continuity with the surrounding landscape, particularly in exterior pathways and treatments.

### Spatial Organization and Experience

The layout of the building prioritizes user experience and community engagement. Versatile spaces such as auditoriums and exhibition areas are designed for adaptability, accommodating large gatherings and performances. Administrative offices are strategically located to maintain operational efficiency while minimizing interference with event spaces. Additionally, a café and observation deck provide panoramic views and encourage social interaction, fostering a communal atmosphere. The form of the building mirrors the natural topography, featuring undulating roofs and rhythmic vertical elements that evoke the nearby forest, creating an inviting and dynamic environment for visitors.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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