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Central Chimney and Glass Façade Inhabiting Nature on the Venta River

Author:
Jakub Awin
Central Chimney and Glass Façade Inhabiting Nature on the Venta River

Project in-detail

A central chimney and extensive glass façade enhance the connection to the surrounding landscape, creating a compact cabin experience along the Venta River dedicated to tourism and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central chimney incorporates traditional East European tiled stove design for warmth.
02
Extensive glass façades enhance natural light and views of the river.
03
Elevated deck provides a separation between public and private spaces.
04
Sleeping area features a raised bed for distinct functional zoning.
05
BBQ area designed for communal interaction near nature.

Lucid Dreams - Caramel Shore Traveller Rooms is located along the Venta River in Latvia and designed as a compact cabin tourism experience. The focus is on blending cabins into the surrounding landscape, highlighting cleanliness, visual clarity, and simplicity. The use of white predominates, a color that holds cultural significance in Latvia, symbolizing purity and a connection to local traditions.

Site Plan and Functional Elements

The site plan includes various functional areas that enhance the experience for visitors. Key features consist of a sleeping cabin, barbecue area, terrace, sauna, boat dock, storage shed, and parking. Each element is thoughtfully located to allow interaction with nature while ensuring guest privacy, creating a peaceful setting for relaxation.

Architectural Features

A notable aspect of the design is the central chimney, which acts as the heart of the cabin. Inspired by the East European tiled stove, it provides warmth and serves as a gathering point. The fireplace space is multifunctional, incorporating sleeping and bathing areas. A raised bed distinctly separates these spaces from areas used for daily activities, promoting an efficient layout.

Transparency and Connection to Nature

Large glass façades are a significant element of the design, allowing for an open view of the surrounding landscape. This feature not only improves visual appeal but also lets in plenty of natural light, enhancing the overall atmosphere. The glass connects the interior with the outdoors, promoting a sense of calm and openness.

Public Interaction Areas

The project also includes a public use area by the river, separated from the cabins to maintain privacy for guests. This arrangement encourages social interaction among visitors. An elevated deck serves as a natural division between the outdoor environment and the cabin's functional areas. It provides a space for communal activities while respecting the need for individual comfort.

Design details, such as the prominent chimney and expansive glass areas, help create a cohesive aesthetic that encourages engagement with the natural surroundings. The careful consideration of space and elements reflects a dedication to simplicity and respect for local culture.

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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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