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Charred Timber Cabins Embracing the Golden Spiral in Latvia’s Wilderness

Author:
Leila Davis
Charred Timber Cabins Embracing the Golden Spiral in Latvia’s Wilderness

Project in-detail

Constructed using charred timber, the cabins reflect the golden spiral in their design, seamlessly blending into Latvia’s forested landscape while providing a retreat for trekkers and nature enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins are designed following the golden spiral pattern found in nature.
02
Charred timber cladding enhances durability and resistance to environmental factors.
03
Cross-laminated timber beams form the structural framework for sustainability.
04
Interior spaces feature large windows for integration with the surrounding landscape.
05
The cabin layout promotes comfortable living for trekkers in natural surroundings.

The project features a group of cabins located in the countryside of Latvia, designed for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. The design concept draws inspiration from natural forms, primarily the pine cone and amber, which are significant elements of the local landscape. These cabins are intended to embody themes of time and memory, creating a close relationship between the structures and their surroundings.

Design Concept

The cabins take on organic shapes reminiscent of pine cones, arranged along trekking paths to look like clusters scattered across the forest floor. This design connects the cabins naturally to the landscape, emphasizing the bond between human structures and nature. By reflecting the local environment, the cabins create a sense of belonging, inviting visitors to explore their surroundings.

Materiality

Charred timber tiles define the exterior of the cabins. This choice of material serves both aesthetic and practical purposes. The charring process enhances the wood's durability, making it resistant to fire, decay, insects, and UV damage. The textured finish adds visual interest, while the sustainable sourcing of the timber aligns with environmental considerations, helping to reduce the project's overall ecological footprint.

Internal Layout

Inside the cabins, the layout prioritizes comfort and functionality. Visitors enter through a circular door and find two areas designated for seating and sleeping, with a large window stretching across one wall. This feature provides views of the lush surroundings and allows natural light to fill the space, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere that connects indoor and outdoor experiences.

Structural Features

The cabins’ interior showcases exposed cross-laminated timber beams that provide both support and a natural aesthetic. Timber planks cover the walls and seating platforms, maintaining a consistent material approach throughout the design. The flooring echoes the external golden spiral motif, linking the outside and inside. Such details create a cohesive experience, enhancing the interaction between the visitors and the environment.

The circular door invites occupants to step into a carefully designed space, where every detail enhances the connection to the landscape, making the experience both tranquil and engaging.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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