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 Timbers and Blue Clay Create a Tranquil Homestead Retreat

Authors:
Alexander Galego, Hayden Wooldridge
Charred Timbers and Blue Clay Create a Tranquil Homestead Retreat

Project in-detail

Charred timbers and recycled blue clay create a harmonious retreat that integrates seamlessly with the landscape, providing spaces for relaxation and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred timbers provide a natural weather-resistant feature.
02
Recycled blue clay bricks are used for modular construction.
03
The design includes dedicated areas for permaculture activities.
04
A circular sauna enhances traditional Latvian bathing rituals.
05
The layout incorporates views of the surrounding landscape throughout.

The setting is Latvia, where the design draws from local traditions, particularly the concept of the homestead. The spaces are crafted for gathering, working, living, and relaxation, creating a harmonious environment that respects the site's natural features. A wrapping form follows the contours of the hill, promoting a sense of peace and connection to the landscape.

Architectural Layout

The arrangement includes a network of spaces that maintain a balance between privacy and openness. Lowered ceilings create an inviting atmosphere, guiding attention to a central garden and relaxation area. This thoughtful design encourages easy movement between indoors and outdoors, allowing for greater engagement with nature.

Sustainable Practices

Sustainability plays a significant role in the design. A wrapping veranda shields against harsh sunlight during the summer and allows warmth from the sun in the winter. Adjustable louvers around the courtyard improve airflow, contributing to a comfortable living environment while minimizing energy use.

Material Selection

Materials chosen for the project include charred timbers, concrete, and recycled blue clay bricks. These selections provide contrast to the surrounding greenery. The timber structures are arranged in a grid that adds depth, creating a dialogue between the architecture and nature. Such choices emphasize both visual appeal and a commitment to sustainable practices.

Community Engagement

The design places importance on community involvement and education about local agriculture. Dedicated spaces for gardening and permaculture practices encourage interaction with the land. Innovative use of blue clay bricks supports future construction opportunities for residents. The spa area extends over the water, fostering a close relationship between indoor spaces and the natural environment, with a circular sauna that connects users to the experience of nature.

Through its thoughtful integration with the landscape, the design reflects local culture and creates a strong sense of place that resonates with the natural surroundings.

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

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

`
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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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