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Charred Wood Shingles and Living Walls Create a Mindfulness Hub in the Latvian Boglands

Authors:
Parth Prajapati, Ata Jan-ahmadnejad, Tejinder Babbar, Austin Hendy
Charred Wood Shingles and Living Walls Create a Mindfulness Hub in the Latvian Boglands

Project in-detail

Employing charred wood shingles and bio-inspired living walls, the design fosters a strong connection with the Latvian boglands while providing a multifunctional space dedicated to wellness activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates living walls to enhance biodiversity and air quality.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for durability and fire resistance.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and views.
04
Constructed using locally sourced cross-laminated timber panels.
05
Elevated structure minimizes ecological impact on the surrounding boglands.
The architectural project "Ritual in Nature" is situated in the bogs of Latvia, an area characterized by its delicate ecological balance and biodiversity. The design focuses on integrating architecture with the surrounding environment, emphasizing a connection between individuals and nature through structured activities that promote wellness and mindfulness. The building serves multiple functions, including spaces for yoga, social gatherings, gardening, and relaxation.

The layout of the project consists of a central communal area that encourages interaction, flanked by distinct zones for specialized activities. This arrangement facilitates both communal engagement and individual reflection. Large glass façades are employed to enhance natural lighting and provide unobstructed views of the rich landscape, effectively blurring the boundaries between interior spaces and the natural environment.

Design Integration with Nature
The project stands out for its innovative use of materials and its commitment to sustainability. Predominantly constructed from wood, the building promotes a warm atmosphere while utilizing local timber to support the regional economy. The incorporation of living walls not only enhances air quality but also significantly contributes to thermal insulation and biodiversity. A green roof allows for vegetation that aids in stormwater management, further reinforcing the project’s ecological aims.

The use of rainwater harvesting systems exemplifies the design’s focus on minimizing environmental impact. Elevated structures on tree-like columns reduce the footprint on the natural landscape, fostering a sense of lightness and connectivity with the surroundings. This design approach emphasizes harmony with nature rather than dominance over it, granting users a unique opportunity to engage with the landscape intimately.

Functional Elements and Architectural Details
The interior of "Ritual in Nature" is designed to embrace versatility, accommodating a range of activities that align with the overall theme of wellness. The central space is designed for yoga and communal gatherings, enhanced by natural ventilation through strategically placed openings. Specialized areas for gardening offer direct interaction with the landscape, fostering experiential learning and a sense of community.

The architectural sections of the project reveal careful attention to circulation and accessibility. Raised walkways integrate seamlessly with the natural terrain, ensuring that all users can navigate the space comfortably. Each detail, from the selection of materials to the arrangement of functional zones, reinforces the project's ethos of mindfulness and connection to the environment.

Overall, "Ritual in Nature" embodies a thoughtful interpretation of architectural design focused on sustainability, collaboration, and well-being. Its unique approaches to materiality and spatial organization set it apart from other projects, demonstrating that architecture can effectively foster a deeper connection between people and the natural world. For a more detailed examination of the architectural plans and sections that underpin this project, delve into the design presentation.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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