Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Center for Community Engagement

Author:
Giuseppe Vultaggio
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Center for Community Engagement
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design integrates seamlessly with the landscape to serve as a multifunctional center for community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rainwater harvesting systems to enhance sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for efficient structural performance.
04
Integrates pathways that connect natural elements with built spaces.
05
Designed to accommodate multi-functional community gatherings and events.

## Project Overview

Located in the rural Vidzeme region of eastern Latvia, this architectural design integrates contemporary forms with the area's rich natural environment. The project aims to create a harmonious relationship between the built structures and the serene landscape characterized by forests and lakes. It emphasizes community engagement through thoughtful spatial organization that balances private and communal experiences.

### Spatial Configuration and Community Engagement

The design employs a community-oriented approach, strategically positioning various built forms to promote social interaction while respecting the site's natural features. A combination of above-ground and underground facilities optimizes land use and minimizes environmental impact. Key spaces include a "Silence Room" designed for introspection and a vibrant series of above-ground structures that facilitate communal activities. This arrangement fosters both individual reflection and collective gatherings, enhancing the overall user experience.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Materiality plays a critical role in the project by aligning with sustainability principles while ensuring aesthetic coherence. The use of diverse timber varieties enhances structural integrity and warmth, allowing the buildings to blend into their surroundings. Stone features prominently in the main event space, known as the Stone Barn, establishing a connection to the area's historical context. Large glass openings optimize natural light and visual connections with the landscape, while metal components add a contemporary touch. The project incorporates sustainable practices such as rainwater harvesting, landscape preservation, and energy-efficient designs that further emphasize its commitment to ecological sensitivity.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

`
Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in