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Ceramic Facades and Gabled Forms in Sustainable Timber Retreats

Author:
Jakub Awin
Ceramic Facades and Gabled Forms in Sustainable Timber Retreats

Project in-detail

With its eye-catching ceramic tile facade and gabled forms harmoniously crafted from local timber, the retreat invites guests to experience tranquil immersion in nature while honoring the cultural heritage of Lithuania.
5 key facts about this project
01
The facade incorporates locally-inspired ceramic tiles that reflect Lithuanian cultural patterns.
02
Each cabin is designed with gabled roofs to facilitate snow runoff while enhancing aesthetic appeal.
03
The use of charred wooden shingles promotes durability and aligns with traditional Scandinavian building methods.
04
The architectural layout emphasizes communal spaces, fostering connections among guests without sacrificing privacy.
05
A dedicated boat dock enhances guest engagement with the adjacent Venta River, promoting outdoor activities.
The architectural project titled "Lucid Dream" in Caramel Shore presents a thoughtful and culturally resonant approach to cabin tourism, specifically designed to enhance the experience of visitors while integrating harmoniously into its natural surroundings. Situated along the Venta River, this project reflects a careful balance of design, functionality, and local cultural narratives. Each aspect of the architecture has been meticulously crafted to foster connections with both the landscape and the community, making it a unique contribution to modern architectural discourse in the region.

"Lucid Dream" represents a new paradigm in tourism architecture—one that prioritizes interaction with the environment while remaining rooted in cultural traditions. The project offers travelers a serene retreat, encouraging them to embrace the surrounding nature and engage with the beauty of Lithuania's cultural heritage. The design illustrates a blend of communal and private spaces, allowing for both social interaction and personal reflection, which is essential in an era where wellness and connection with nature are increasingly valued.

The architectural design features a series of gabled structures, drawing inspiration from traditional cabins yet translating this vernacular form into a contemporary context. The use of natural materials is a hallmark of this project. The main structural elements are made from wood, showcasing sustainability, durability, and adaptive functionality. The façade is adorned with patterned ceramic tiles in hues of red and white, echoing local artistic traditions and fostering a visual dialogue with the surrounding landscape. The interplay between these materials generates a warm, inviting aesthetic that speaks to both tourists and locals alike.

Significant attention has been paid to spatial organization within the project, which is designed to maintain individual privacy while promoting a sense of community. The first floor combines essential public amenities with communal spaces, including a terrace and barbecue zone, facilitating social interaction among guests. These areas are strategically positioned to maximize views of the captivating natural scenery, encouraging visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquil environment. The second floor focuses on sleeping areas, offering guests privacy and comfort, further enhancing the retreat experience.

Unique design approaches in "Lucid Dream" revolve around its commitment to blending comfort with authenticity. The integration of a sauna aligns with local customs and reflects an understanding of the wellness culture prevalent in Lithuania. This design element highlights the project's dedication to providing an authentic experience that goes beyond mere accommodation, promoting relaxation and rejuvenation for guests.

Incorporating a boat dock near the Venta River serves as a functional addition that facilitates various recreational activities, such as fishing and boating, thus enhancing guests' engagement with nature. This feature underscores the project's ethos of encouraging outdoor exploration and interaction that aligns with the serene landscape that envelops the cabins.

Overall, "Lucid Dream" stands out due to its cultural reverence, sustainable practices, and thoughtful integration into the landscape. The careful selection of materials and architectural forms not only prioritize the environmental context but also honor local traditions, providing a rich narrative for visitors to explore. The design balances modern comforts with an appreciation for the historical significance of the region, making it a noteworthy example of contemporary architecture that respects and reflects its context.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of "Lucid Dream," exploring the architectural plans, sections, and detailed design elements will provide additional insights into the project’s innovative approaches. This architectural endeavor invites readers and potential visitors alike to discover how design can effectively enhance the experience of a location while remaining sensitive to its cultural roots.
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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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