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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

Project in-detail

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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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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