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Charred Wood Cabins Integrating Tadelakt in a Forest Retreat

Authors:
Mikael Junehag, Robin Bylund
Charred Wood Cabins Integrating Tadelakt in a Forest Retreat

Project in-detail

Using charred wood for durability and Tadelakt for sustainability, the cabins serve as a peaceful retreat for meditation while harmonizing with the surrounding forest environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins utilize charred wood for enhanced weather resistance.
02
Tadelakt plaster is employed for eco-friendly waterproofing in the baths.
03
Modular straw elements allow for quick and efficient on-site assembly.
04
Natural ventilation is achieved through a chimney effect for airflow.
05
A steep roof collects rainwater for reuse, promoting sustainability.

Deep within the Latvian forest, Brīdī serves as a retreat designed for meditation and personal reflection. It creates a peaceful environment for individuals looking to escape the stresses of daily life. The concept highlights a strong connection between the structure and the natural landscape, promoting an experience of calm and introspection.

Design Intent

The design prioritizes simplicity and functionality while emphasizing a close relationship with nature. The cabins are placed in existing glades, allowing natural light to fill the interiors without cutting down trees. This thoughtful approach respects the landscape and takes inspiration from traditional rural architecture, providing a familiar and comforting look.

Spatial Organization

The cabin layout is versatile and adaptable. The main room can be used for different activities like yoga and meditation. This space can also extend onto an outdoor terrace, which enhances the connection to the forest. Windows are placed strategically to frame views of the surrounding nature, creating a sense of immersion in the tranquil setting.

Sustainability Features

Sustainable practices are a key focus of Brīdī. The steep roof collects rainwater and captures solar energy, supporting the environmental goals of the design. This roof shape also allows for a loft space, making effective use of the cabin's compact size. Charred wood cladding is used for durability and helps the structure blend in with the forest environment.

Material Selection

Materials for the project reflect a commitment to ecological standards. Slender wood cladding matches the vertical forms of the surrounding trees, enhancing the visual connection. Inside, plywood finishes create warmth and comfort, while Tadelakt plaster used in bathing areas promotes sustainability and a healthy indoor climate. The use of prefabricated straw elements in the construction process reduces the environmental impact and allows for quicker assembly.

The cabin includes systems designed to manage rainwater efficiently. Vegetation helps filter wastewater, maintaining the natural beauty of the site while ensuring functional living spaces.

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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

Enter an open architecture
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