Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Bark Cladding and Straw Insulation in a Latvian Retreat Promoting Community Connection

Authors:
Tjeerd Timmermans, Antal Frijters, Michel Kelder, Ksenia Koetilova
Charred Bark Cladding and Straw Insulation in a Latvian Retreat Promoting Community Connection

Project in-detail

Charred bark cladding and straw insulation define a series of self-sustaining cabins in Latvia, designed to foster community interaction while seamlessly integrating with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred bark cladding enhances durability while providing a natural aesthetic.
02
Straw insulation minimizes environmental impact and promotes thermal efficiency.
03
Cabin designs feature large openings to facilitate seamless indoor-outdoor connections.
04
Community-focused layout encourages social interaction among guests and visitors.
05
The phased construction approach incorporates future tree growth into building materials.
The architectural project "Leaf for Nature" presents a design that aligns closely with its natural surroundings in Latvia, emphasizing the relationship between architecture and the environment. This project consists of a series of dispersed cabins and a central communal building positioned along the banks of the Vento River, promoting an immersive experience with nature. Each cabin integrates seamlessly into the landscape, while the core building serves as a gathering space, reinforcing community and cultural ties.

The primary function of these structures is to provide a retreat where visitors can connect with nature and engage in shared activities. The cabins offer private spaces that encourage introspection and relaxation. In contrast, the core building facilitates social interaction with amenities such as a sauna and communal kitchen, vital for fostering community spirit among guests.

Unique Design Approaches and Features
"Leaf for Nature" distinguishes itself through its commitment to a circular design approach, incorporating sustainability into every phase of development. The project plans for gradual construction over a 30-year time frame, allowing for the integration of local trees into future designs, thus linking the built environment directly to the ecosystem. This method not only enhances ecological responsibility but also creates an evolving architectural narrative that responds to the growth of its surroundings.

The project employs local materials to minimize its environmental footprint. Wood sourced from local forests, straw for insulation, and tree bark for cladding showcase a commitment to resource efficiency and sustainability. Such selection is not merely functional but also deeply rooted in Latvian culture, reinforcing the connection between architecture and local identity.

Another distinctive feature is the biophilic design principles applied throughout the cabins and communal spaces. Large openings in the cabin designs allow for natural ventilation and an unobstructed view of the landscape, thus strengthening the relationship between interior spaces and the natural setting. The pathways meander through the site, further blurring the lines between built and natural environments and encouraging exploration.

Community Integration and Social Connectivity
The design fosters community engagement by situating the core building as the focal point of interaction. With spaces for communal dining and cultural activities, the project engages visitors in shared experiences that encourage social bonding. Traditional elements, such as the sauna, play a crucial role in Latvian culture and enhance the authenticity of the experience offered.

The combination of dispersed cabins and a central gathering space aims to create an environment where visitors can share experiences while still finding solace in their individual cabins. This duality of private and communal spaces caters to diverse needs, allowing the architecture to serve multiple functions effectively.

For those interested in a deeper exploration of the architectural details, including comprehensive architectural plans, architectural sections, and specific design insights, be sure to review the full project presentation. This will provide greater context to the design choices and functional articulations that define "Leaf for Nature."
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy