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Charred Wood Cladding and Thatch Roofing Envelop a Community Hub in Latvia

Authors:
Zeynep Arancı, Sefa Koyun
Charred Wood Cladding and Thatch Roofing Envelop a Community Hub in Latvia

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wood cladding and thatch roofing, the design creates a seamless blend of tradition and sustainability, housing a community-focused horse museum and cultural center in the heart of Latvia.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates thatch roofing traditionally used in Latvian architecture.
02
Utilizes charred wood cladding for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
04
Includes a unique bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light.
05
Promotes community engagement through versatile workshop and exhibition spaces.

The architectural project "Carousel" is located in Omuli Skola, Latvia, within a UNESCO biosphere reserve. This facility serves primarily as a local horse museum and community hub. The design integrates renovation of an existing school building with new construction elements, creating a multifunctional space for exhibitions, workshops, and community gatherings.

The project emphasizes the interaction between architecture and the natural environment, utilizing a design concept that mirrors the playful dynamics of a carousel. The building’s layout encourages movement and exploration, making it an inviting destination for both locals and visitors. The design showcases various interactive spaces, including exhibition halls and a sauna, that promote cultural appreciation and community engagement.

Incorporating traditional vernacular materials like thatch for the roof, glass for natural lighting, and timber for structural integrity reflects the project’s commitment to local craftsmanship. The design also features innovative sustainability strategies, such as energy-efficient solar panels and green roofs that enhance the building's integration with its surroundings.

The project stands out through its thematic architectural approach, creating a circular flow that resembles a carousel. This design not only enhances visitor experience but also facilitates flexibility in its use. The connection between interior and exterior spaces becomes a focal point, with large windows offering views of the surrounding landscape.

Another aspect that differentiates Carousel is the emphasis on accessibility. Thoughtfully designed ramps ensure ease of access for all visitors, reinforcing the project’s mission of inclusivity.

The creation of a workshop area allows for educational programs, while community spaces foster social interactions. The architectural concept transcends basic museum functionalities by transforming the site into a lively cultural center.

To explore more about the Carousel project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and design concepts, interested readers are encouraged to review the project presentation for further insights into its unique architectural ideas and community impact.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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