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Charred Wood Shingles and Expansive Glass Create Serene Retreats Balancing Nature and Community

Author:
Aleksandra Baskelovych
Charred Wood Shingles and Expansive Glass Create Serene Retreats Balancing Nature and Community

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wood shingles and extensive glass, the design merges sustainably sourced materials with an open layout to facilitate community engagement and create a tranquil environment for reflection and creativity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred wood shingles, enhancing durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Large glass panels provide panoramic views, fostering a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.
03
The flexible interior layout accommodates various communal activities, promoting interaction among users.
04
Solar panels integrated into the design support off-grid energy solutions for sustainable living.
05
The bent A-frame structure optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout the interior spaces.
The Pavilosta Poet Huts, situated along the western coast of Latvia, represent a thoughtful architectural response to the need for a tranquil retreat. Designed to facilitate communal activities such as poetry readings and meditative practices, the project emphasizes a strong relationship between architecture and nature. The huts serve as functional spaces for residents while fostering an environment conducive to relaxation and creativity.

The design of the Poet Huts prioritizes ecological sustainability and user experience. Key materials include concrete for structural elements, wood for warmth and integration with the landscape, and glass for ample natural light. These choices enhance thermal efficiency and reduce environmental impact, essential for a project situated in a natural setting.

Social interaction is a fundamental aspect of the huts’ design. Common areas, including multipurpose gathering spaces and shared kitchens, encourage community engagement. Each hut is strategically positioned to ensure privacy while maintaining sightlines to the surrounding environment.

Unique Design Approaches and Materials

Pavilosta Poet Huts differentiate themselves through their biophilic design. The use of large glass panels connects occupants to the natural surroundings, allowing for uninterrupted views of the landscape and ensuring that indoor spaces feel expansive and airy. The project also integrates solar panels for energy generation, facilitating a self-sufficient energy model that mitigates reliance on non-renewable resources.

The architectural form of the huts, with their sloping roofs and terraces, maximizes natural ventilation and sunlight exposure. This attention to climatic considerations not only enhances occupant comfort but also reinforces a commitment to environmentally responsible design practices.

Functionality and Community Integration

The architectural layout emphasizes multifunctionality. Each hut is designed with both private and communal spaces, accommodating a range of activities from personal reflection to group gatherings. The combination of sleeping quarters, dining areas, and common spaces promotes a sense of togetherness essential for fostering community ties.

Terraces extend the living space outdoors, providing areas for relaxation and interaction while promoting an appreciation of the natural environment. This thoughtful integration of the interior and exterior spaces enhances the overall experience of users and supports the wellness objectives of the project.

For those interested in exploring the Pavilosta Poet Huts further, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and designs can provide deeper insights into this well-conceived project. Understanding the balance of functionality and environmental consciousness presented in this architecture can inspire further discussions on sustainable building practices and community integration.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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