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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Construct a Serene Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Ana carolina Zuin freitas, Marina Salles luz
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Construct a Serene Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the retreat emphasizes a connection to nature while serving as a wellness-focused guesthouse for tranquility and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that provide structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Includes dedicated wellness spaces for yoga and tea-making, fostering community engagement.
05
Preserves an existing stone barn, integrating local heritage into modern functionality.
The Ozolini Teamakers Guesthouse serves as a unique architectural intervention located near Lake Bezdībene in Latvia. This project focuses on providing a retreat for individuals seeking to reconnect with themselves and nature. Emphasizing wellness, community, and local traditions, the design blends the historical context of its surroundings with contemporary architectural approaches. The guesthouse includes both preserved elements of an existing stone barn and newly constructed spaces, catering to various activities related to tea-making, relaxation, and social interaction.

Architectural Adaptation and Connection to Nature
One of the most notable aspects of the Ozolini Teamakers Guesthouse is the effective adaptation of the original stone barn, which has been transitioned from a tea-drying facility to a multifunctional community space. Retaining its thick stone walls, the barn offers thermal stability, contributing to the overall energy efficiency of the project. The introduction of skylights enhances natural lighting conditions, improving the aesthetic quality of interior spaces while minimizing reliance on artificial lighting.

The new constructions surrounding the barn consist of modular forms designed to optimize views of the natural landscape. Large windows and open balconies blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments, allowing guests to experience the beauty of the forest and lake. This seamless integration serves the dual purpose of enhancing guest comfort and promoting an appreciation for the local ecosystem.

Sustainability as a Core Design Principle
Sustainability is a critical focus of this architectural project, as demonstrated through the selection of materials and construction techniques. The primary structural material is Cross Laminated Timber (CLT), which offers a lightweight yet durable option for modular segments. CLT's sustainability lies in its renewability and insulation properties. The inclusion of solar panels reflects a commitment to reducing the overall carbon footprint and supporting energy independence.

Additional materials, such as cement plates and wood elements, complement the design by adding to both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. The careful selection and combination of these materials show an understanding of how architecture can harmonize with environmental goals while also enhancing user experience.

Holistic Wellness and Community Engagement
The design approach of the Ozolini Teamakers Guesthouse promotes wellness through distinct spaces catering to individual and communal experiences. Dedicated areas for yoga, workshops on tea-making, and shared dining create opportunities for guest interaction and personal reflection. This multifaceted design encourages participation in communal activities, fostering a sense of belonging among visitors.

By prioritizing wellness, the project distinguishes itself in the hospitality sector. The focus on holistic experiences, combined with a strong connection to local traditions, invites guests to engage deeply with the surrounding culture and environment. The result is a guesthouse that transcends traditional hospitality offerings.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural planning and design processes behind the Ozolini Teamakers Guesthouse, readers are encouraged to explore details such as architectural plans, sections, and designs. Engaging with these elements will provide valuable insights into the thoughtful architectural ideas that shape this project.
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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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