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Charmed Pine Cladding and Elevated Design Unite in Timber Retreat Along the Baltic Sea

Authors:
Jingle Chen, Shahn Griffen
Charmed Pine Cladding and Elevated Design Unite in Timber Retreat Along the Baltic Sea
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Utilizing charred wood cladding and an elevated foundation, the design integrates seamlessly into its Baltic Sea surroundings, offering a modern retreat that prioritizes both sustainability and comfort.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes characteristic charred wood cladding for enhanced durability and aesthetic integration.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to improve structural performance and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that allows for optimal space utilization and natural light.
04
Strategically placed large windows maximize panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
05
Elevated foundation minimizes site disruption and enhances resilience to environmental factors.

### Project Overview

The Dzinters Cabins are situated along the Amber Road trail in Latvia, adjacent to the Baltic Sea. The design intent focuses on creating functional residential spaces that enhance the experience of the natural landscape. Emphasizing a connection with the surrounding wilderness, the cabins provide occupants with modern comforts while fostering an intimate relationship with nature.

### Spatial Configuration and Materiality

The design promotes an open layout that includes both ground and loft levels, allowing for versatile living, recreational, and sleeping spaces. Internal configurations utilize movable furniture and adaptable layouts, catering to diverse occupant needs. Central to the interior is a fireplace, which serves as a gathering point, enhancing social interaction while providing warmth.

Exteriors feature a pitched roof and a façade of vertical wooden slats, integrating the structures within the forested environment. The use of charred pine cladding enhances durability and aesthetic value, while birch plywood interiors contribute to a cozy atmosphere. Extensive glazing ensures unobstructed views of the landscape, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor environments.

### Construction Techniques and Sustainability

The cabins are raised on a strategically designed footing system that addresses environmental stability on uneven terrain. Incorporating steel elements in the framework adds strength and longevity, with galvanized steel brackets preventing corrosion.

To optimize energy efficiency, the design utilizes 25mm thick insulation and waterproof membranes within the exterior walls. Locally sourced materials further reduce the project's carbon footprint, ensuring minimal disruption to the surrounding ecosystem. This careful selection and construction methodology underscore a commitment to sustainability while enhancing the functional aspects of the design.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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