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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."

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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