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Charred Wood Cladding and Natural Ventilation in a Multi-Story Forest Retreat

Authors:
Angela Maria Marteddu, Danilo Gabriel Diaz Estela, Paola Chessa
Charred Wood Cladding and Natural Ventilation in a Multi-Story Forest Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wood cladding and integrated rainwater systems, this multi-story retreat in Latvia merges sustainability with modern craftsmanship to create a unique residential haven within the forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and aesthetic integration with the landscape.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural efficiency and reduced carbon footprint.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes interior space while providing expansive views.
04
Incorporates a rainwater collection system for sustainable water management.
05
Designed to promote passive solar heating through strategic window placements.

## Overview
Located along the Latvian coast, "Climb the Amberroad" aims to establish a residential dwelling that responds thoughtfully to its forested landscape near the Baltic Sea. The design prioritizes a connection between the built environment and nature, drawing upon local architectural styles and promoting an enhanced interaction between residents and their surroundings. The structure is conceived not only as a living space but also as a vantage point to appreciate the scenic beauty of the area.

### Spatial Organization
The cabin features a vertically-stacked configuration comprising three distinct volumes, which facilitates an open living environment while maximizing views of the landscape. The ground floor is designed for communal activities and includes essential utility spaces, while the second floor accommodates sleeping areas outfitted with large windows to provide natural light and maintain visual connectivity with the outdoor environment. The third floor serves as a viewing platform, encouraging occupants to engage with the scenic vistas of the Baltic Sea and surrounding forest.

### Materials and Sustainability
Sustainability is a core aspect of the design, which employs carefully selected materials that ensure warmth and functionality. Dark wood, a nod to local vernacular architecture, is utilized throughout the structure, offering both thermal efficiency and an aesthetic harmony with the environment. The strategic placement of glass windows allows for passive solar heating and ample daylight penetration. Additionally, the cabin incorporates rainwater harvesting systems and enhanced insulation techniques, such as air chambers, to optimize energy efficiency and promote responsible resource management. An integrated heating system, designed with a fireplace adjacent to the water tank, further supports energy conservation while ensuring comfort in the variable Baltic climate.

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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
competition now

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