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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Seamless Integration With the Forest For Community Dining

Authors:
Justinas Zuklys, Ieva Zuklyte, Salvatore Antonio Iasi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Seamless Integration With the Forest For Community Dining

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber define a series of adaptable communal huts that harmoniously blend into the forest landscape, creating a unique dining experience that promotes social interaction and environmental sensitivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide weather resistance and aesthetic cohesion with the forest.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels were selected for their sustainable properties and structural efficiency.
03
The bent A-frame design enhances natural light while maintaining a compact footprint.
04
Each hut features adjustable shutters to adapt to varying weather conditions and user needs.
05
Modular construction methods allow for quick assembly and easier future relocations.
The Sansusi Forest Food Court is an architectural project that integrates seamlessly into a forest environment, emphasizing sustainability while enhancing user experience. With a design that prioritizes adaptability and communal spaces, the project effectively combines modern architecture with elements representative of traditional Latvian styles. This food court serves not only as a dining facility but also as a venue for social interaction, engaging visitors with its surrounding landscape.

Unique Spaces and Functionality

The design features a series of interconnected wooden huts, each intended for varying functions. These spaces are organized to promote a fluid movement throughout the site, encouraging interactions among visitors. The openings in each hut provide a view of the forest, fostering a strong connection to nature. Adaptable furniture and movable elements within the interiors enable multi-purpose use, allowing rooms to transform according to the activity – from dining to social gatherings.

The modular approach to the architectural design streamlines the construction process and aligns with environmentally conscious practices. Each hut is built using prefabricated wooden panels, which minimize waste and promote efficient assembly. The structure's elevated design, supported by terrace slabs, not only protects the huts from moisture but also contributes to the overall longevity of the architecture.

Sustainable Materials and Techniques

Sustainability plays a central role in the project. The design utilizes locally sourced materials, primarily wood, which reduces the environmental footprint associated with transportation. The architectural elements include vertical wooden beams for structural support, irregularly shaped wooden panels for cladding, and adaptable shutters that allow the interior and exterior to adjust to changing climate conditions. LED lighting is integrated into the design, providing an energy-efficient solution for illumination, thereby enhancing the sustainability profile.

This project demonstrates a commitment to ecological design strategies while preserving local architectural languages. The visual language of the food court, with its clean lines and natural materials, serves to reflect the surrounding forest, allowing the built environment to support and enhance the natural landscape rather than overpower it.

Engagement with the Environment

Overall, the Sansusi Forest Food Court stands as an exemplary model of architectural design that marries functionality with environmental responsibility. Its thoughtful composition encourages community interaction while respecting the integrity of the natural surroundings. For those interested in exploring the specifics of this project further, a review of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas will provide deeper insights into the design rationale and execution.
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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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