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Charred Shingle Cabins Embracing Natural Wood Textures in A Forest Retreat

Author:
Mitsuho Matsui
Charred Shingle Cabins Embracing Natural Wood Textures in A Forest Retreat

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and warm natural tones, these cabins offer a harmonious blend of traditional Latvian craftsmanship and modern design, providing a serene retreat for hikers seeking comfort in the heart of the forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins utilize charred wooden shingles that enhance durability and integrate with the natural surroundings.
02
Designed with cross-laminated timber panels, promoting sustainable building practices and exceptional structural integrity.
03
The bent A-frame structure allows for improved thermal performance and natural light distribution throughout the interiors.
04
Each cabin's layout encourages communal interaction while maintaining privacy for individual guests.
05
Strategically positioned glass elements provide unobstructed views of the forest landscape, fostering a strong connection to nature.
The architectural project known as "Amber Dream" emerges from a vision that harmonizes with the natural surroundings of Latvia, specifically within its rich woodlands where the landscape offers a tranquil retreat for hikers and nature lovers. This project embodies a blend of contemporary design and traditional architectural values, drawing inspiration from the locally significant material of amber, which serves as both a design motif and an emblem of Latvian identity.

This project functions as a series of cabins dedicated to providing accommodation for individuals seeking respite from their hiking journeys. The design philosophy central to the "Amber Dream" project emphasizes a seamless integration with the landscape, whereby the built environment not only complements but enhances the natural beauty of its surroundings. By utilizing materials that echo the colors and textures found in nature, the architecture immerses visitors in a sensory experience that is as much about feeling at home in the wild as it is about enjoying the comforts of modern design.

Key architectural components of this project include structure, materiality, and spatial organization. The cabins are defined by pitched roofs, a feature that is both functional and symbolic. This design choice accounts for the region's climatic conditions, ensuring effective water runoff during rainy seasons while also evoking the traditional building practices of Latvian folk architecture. Additionally, the roofs contribute to the aesthetic balance of the cabins within the wooded context, blending well with the line of the tree canopies.

The use of wood is a significant aspect of the project, chosen for both its sustainability and its ability to connect the architecture to the site’s natural environment. Laminated wooden beams form the structural framework, giving the cabins strength and durability without detracting from their lightweight appearance. In conjunction with wood, expansive glass panels are integrated into the design, promoting transparency and allowing for abundant natural light. This incorporation of glass invites the beautiful outdoor landscape into the interior spaces, facilitating a continuous dialogue between indoor and outdoor environments.

The layout of the cabins reflects an understanding of both communal and individual needs, with shared spaces that encourage interaction among guests while providing private areas for relaxation. This balance allows for a community-centric approach that fosters social connections without sacrificing personal space. The interiors are designed to maintain a sense of coziness and warm ambiance, evoking the glow of amber through careful lighting decisions and the use of warm color palettes.

Unique design approaches within the "Amber Dream" project can also be observed in its modularity, allowing for potential future expansion based on user demand. This aspect offers flexibility and adaptability, aligning with sustainable development principles by reducing the need for extensive new constructions. Moreover, the cabins’ placement throughout the wooded area is executed with precision, minimizing disruption to the natural habitat and enabling a thoughtful engagement with the landscape.

The "Amber Dream" project serves as a serene refuge that celebrates local tradition while embracing modern architectural practices. The design captures the essence of Latvian heritage and crafts an environment that is nurturing and restorative, encouraging visitors to unwind and reconnect with nature. To explore specific architectural plans, sections, and additional design details that contribute to the project’s overall narrative, readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the project presentation for a richer understanding of its architectural ideas and potential impact.
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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
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