Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Charred Steel and Timber Chambers Offering Retreat in Nature's Embrace

Authors:
Annette Gerteiser, Federica Maier
Charred Steel and Timber Chambers Offering Retreat in Nature's Embrace
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Charred steel and timber create an inviting retreat that harmonizes with the surrounding landscape, providing multifunctional shelter for hikers seeking respite in nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels offer structural strength and sustainability.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior volume while minimizing material use.
04
Elevated base reduces moisture impact and improves sightlines.
05
Flexible chamber configurations accommodate diverse user needs and activities.

**Overview**
Located in Latvia's picturesque landscape, the design for "Chamber" aims to create a multifunctional space for hikers seeking rest in a natural setting. Drawing inspiration from traditional architectural forms while addressing contemporary needs, the design merges the comfort of home with the transient requirements of outdoor enthusiasts. The project reflects a duality of structures that interact visually and spatially, underscoring a modular approach to design that respects historical context.

**Materiality and Construction**
A careful selection of materials enhances both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the design. The exterior features standing seam metal cladding, providing a durable shell that withstands outdoor elements while imparting a modern touch. The internal structure is framed with timber, offering a warm atmosphere that aligns with the surrounding environment. Additional elements such as rusty steel for the fireplace introduce a rustic focal point, creating a communal gathering space that promotes social interaction. Wooden shelves at the entrance serve practical purposes while maintaining a streamlined aesthetic.

**Spatial Organization and Functionality**
The layout divides the space into four distinct chambers, allowing flexibility in sleeping arrangements and social use. A central hanging fireplace serves as a communal anchor within the interior, encouraging various activities from cooking to storytelling. Floor plans highlight the modular nature of these spaces, while sectional views emphasize the design's verticality, enhancing the intimate quality of the interior. Transparency around the fireplace facilitates interaction and connection to the natural surroundings, aligning well with the project's intent to support both solitude and collaboration in a serene environment.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

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
Advance registration deadline 28 May 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
Rome 
Rain Rooms

Design rain rooms for Rome

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 May 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

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
Advance registration deadline 28 May 2026
new
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 27 May 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

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

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026

Media, partners and clients

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 17,725 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