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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
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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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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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