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Charred Wooden Shingles and Bamboo Create a Sustainable Retreat Blending with Nature

Authors:
Michael Degirolamo, Danna Lei
Charred Wooden Shingles and Bamboo Create a Sustainable Retreat Blending with Nature

Project in-detail

With its circular form clad in charred wooden shingles and enhanced by adaptable bamboo interiors, this sustainable retreat harmonizes with its landscape while serving as a multifunctional communal space.
5 key facts about this project
01
The hut features a unique circular form that enhances structural stability while creating a spacious interior.
02
Construction utilizes charred wooden shingles to improve durability and provide natural fire resistance.
03
Bamboo is incorporated into the design for flexible, sustainable interior elements that promote adaptability.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels are used for their strength and insulation properties, ensuring energy efficiency.
05
The building is set within a carefully preserved landscape, fostering a strong connection with the surrounding environment.
The “SUB/LAND HUT” architectural project represents a thoughtful exploration of contemporary living within a framework that respects traditional forms and sustainable practices. Situated in a region that values both its cultural heritage and natural beauty, this project encapsulates an innovative approach to design, focusing on the interplay between architecture and its environmental context. Designed to serve multiple functions, the hut is not just a shelter but a space that fosters community engagement, adaptability, and an intimate connection with nature.

The overarching theme of the “SUB/LAND HUT” centers around the idea of designing structures that are viable and responsible in their ecological footprint. The architecture thoughtfully incorporates local materials, which not only helps reduce transportation emissions but also ensures that the hut's aesthetic aligns closely with its surroundings. Using wood and bamboo as primary materials reflects an understanding of traditional construction techniques while promoting sustainability.

A key feature of this project is its innovative circular form. This shape is not merely aesthetic; it enhances structural integrity and environmental performance. The green roof is another significant element, promoting biodiversity by integrating plant life that harmonizes with the regional ecosystem. This design feature also offers insulation benefits, helping to regulate internal temperatures throughout the seasons.

Internally, the layout emphasizes versatility. Spaces are designed to be adaptable, allowing for various configurations depending on the needs of the occupants. The strategic placement of large circular windows maximizes natural light, creating a bright, open atmosphere where the boundaries between indoors and outdoors are minimalized. This design choice fosters a sense of well-being and enhances the overall living experience.

The “SUB/LAND HUT” also places considerable emphasis on functional diversity. By incorporating multi-functional furniture and adaptable rooms, it caters to varying lifestyle scenarios, whether for solitary reflection or communal gatherings. This flexibility is essential in contemporary architecture, aligning with the modern ethos of sustainable living, where space efficiency is paramount.

What sets this architectural design apart is its deliberate nod to cultural heritage through the use of traditional building forms. The design captures the essence of Latvian architecture while integrating modern conveniences. This unique duality enriches the space, offering a dialogue between the past and present. It exemplifies how architecture can serve as a cultural vessel, preserving historical identities while addressing current and future needs.

Emphasizing a holistic approach, the project also integrates renewable energy solutions, including solar panels. This further cements its commitment to sustainability, allowing it to function independently of conventional energy sources. This emphasis on energy efficiency aligns with global trends in architecture that prioritize environmental responsibility.

The architectural plans provide a detailed look at the thoughtful zoning of spaces, ensuring that each area serves its intended purpose while promoting interaction and community. Architectural sections illustrate the interplay of different materials and their contributions to the overall structural concept. The careful consideration of design elements in the “SUB/LAND HUT” generates an atmosphere of simplicity and tranquility, a retreat from the busyness of urban life.

For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural ideas showcased in the “SUB/LAND HUT,” reviewing architectural plans and sections will provide valuable insights into how the project achieves its objectives. The detailed design approaches adopted in this project serve as a reminder of the potential that lies at the intersection of traditional architecture and modern innovations. By exploring the intricate details of the design, readers can appreciate the careful thought and intentionality behind each aspect of the project. This exploration not only highlights the architectural potential but also inspires a dialogue on the future of sustainable living in harmony with nature.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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