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Cedar and Steel Retreat Integrating Semi-Outdoors for Artistic Collaboration

Author:
Po-yu Chung
Cedar and Steel Retreat Integrating Semi-Outdoors for Artistic Collaboration

Project in-detail

Utilizing a looped layout of cedar and galvanized steel, this retreat emphasizes semi-outdoor spaces that foster communal creativity for poets and artists in a coastal environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a looped layout to promote social interaction among residents.
02
Incorporates semi-outdoor spaces that connect the interior with nature.
03
Features a combination of cedar and galvanized steel for durability and aesthetics.
04
Designed with large windows to maximize natural light and ventilation.
05
Emphasizes community engagement through public gathering and workshop areas.

The Pavilosta Art Complex is an architectural project designed to serve as a retreat and collaborative space for poets and artists in Pavilosta, a coastal town in Latvia. This building integrates creative workspaces with residential units, emphasizing community engagement and interaction with the surrounding natural environment. The design showcases a modern interpretation of traditional Latvian architecture, drawing inspiration from local forms while promoting an inviting atmosphere for artistic endeavors.

Spatial Configuration and Functionality

The Pavilosta Art Complex is organized into distinct zones that prioritize both private and communal activities. The project includes living units that accommodate groups of poets, structured to foster social interaction. Each unit features a looped layout, enhancing fluid movement and allowing for spaces dedicated to sleeping, reading, and discussion. The complex’s central gathering area serves as a hub for workshops and public readings, promoting a collaborative creative process among residents and local artists.

The design features semi-outdoor spaces that facilitate interaction with nature, reflecting the project's commitment to creating a dialogue between the built environment and the landscape. Important details include large windows that enhance natural light and ventilation, supporting an open and airy atmosphere conducive to creative work.

Integration of Materials and Sustainability

The architectural design emphasizes the thoughtful use of materials that blend with the local context. Corrugated galvanized steel is employed for the roof to ensure durability while maintaining a contemporary aesthetic. Interior spaces feature cedar wood, which introduces warmth and a tactile quality to the environment. Concrete elements provide structural integrity and serve as a solid foundation for the airy wooden components above. The selection of materials aligns with sustainable practices, ensuring minimal environmental impact while enhancing the building's functionality and aesthetics.

Community-Centric Design Approach

What makes the Pavilosta Art Complex unique is its community-centric focus, which differentiates it from other artistic retreats. Unlike traditional spaces that prioritize solitude and personal reflection, this project encourages public engagement through accessible gathering spots and open workshops. Its design cultivates a sense of belonging and collaboration, inviting local residents to partake in artistic activities. The architectural narrative deeply connects with Courland's regional identity, merging the past and future of Latvian cultural heritage.

For those interested in a comprehensive understanding of this architecture project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and various design elements will provide deeper insights into how the Pavilosta Art Complex innovatively addresses the needs of its users while respecting its coastal 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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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