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Charred Wood Shingles Accentuate Sustainable Cabins Nestled in Coastal Landscape

Author:
Jimena Gonzalez Sicilia Mariana Sastré García
Charred Wood Shingles Accentuate Sustainable Cabins Nestled in Coastal Landscape
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Utilizing charred wood shingles and sustainably sourced timber, the design creates a seamless integration with the coastal landscape, offering a retreat that fosters connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Designed with a bent A-frame silhouette that maximizes interior space while minimizing environmental impact.
04
Features wide communal areas that promote social interaction while maintaining user privacy.
05
Strategically positioned to optimize natural light and scenic views of the coastal surroundings.

## Overview

The Arouse Cabins project is situated near the coastal region of Jurmala, Latvia, with a focus on creating a harmonious relationship between architecture and the surrounding landscape. The design aims to integrate the structures organically into the topography, facilitating an immersive experience that celebrates the natural environment. This report outlines the fundamental aspects of the project, including its conceptual framework, material choices, and spatial organization.

## Integrative Design Approach

The cabins are designed to enhance natural features, maximizing views and sunlight while prioritizing a low-impact footprint. Each cabin comprises two levels: the first level accommodates communal and sleeping areas with expansive windows, fostering a seamless connection to the outdoors. The second level, serving as private sleeping quarters, is elevated to provide enhanced vistas. This dual-level arrangement supports both social interaction and personal retreat. Inclined roofs not only contribute to the aesthetic but are also functional, directing rainwater and improving solar access while enhancing the spatial dynamism inside.

## Materiality and Textural Qualities

The material palette consists primarily of sustainably sourced timber, which is central to both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. The cabins' facades incorporate varied wood finishes, establishing a dialogue between rugged natural textures and sleek architectural lines. Additionally, thermal insulation and water-repellent materials are utilized to ensure durability and energy efficiency, contributing to the cabins' long-term viability. The thoughtful integration of these materials enhances the visual richness of the design while promoting an atmosphere conducive to relaxation and reflection.

The façades feature angular designs and varying planes that interact with light, creating dynamic visual effects throughout the day. This complexity invites users to engage with the structures from multiple perspectives, reinforcing the project’s connection to its environmental context. Pathways are strategically designed to link various beach types and encourage exploration, ensuring that visitors can experience the diverse terrain surrounding the cabins.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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