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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Tranquil Retreat in the Forest

Authors:
JOFREDT CAMILO ALVAREZ AGUILAR, LUZ ADRIANA MARTINEZ MUÑOZ, SERGIO ANDRES JAIMES MEDRANO
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Tranquil Retreat in the Forest

Project in-detail

With charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber harmoniously blending into the forest, the retreat transforms natural elements into inviting spaces for relaxation and introspection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that optimize structural integrity while minimizing environmental impact.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes natural light and panoramic forest views.
04
Includes specially designed meditation spaces that enhance acoustic comfort for tranquility.
05
Utilizes a rainwater harvesting system to promote sustainability and resource efficiency.
The Stone Light Camp project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to architecture that seamlessly integrates with its natural environment. Situated in a serene forest setting in Latvia, this design focuses on promoting health, wellness, and eco-tourism. By leveraging the inherent beauty of the landscape, the project not only provides essential amenities but also fosters an atmosphere conducive to relaxation and reflection.

At its core, the Stone Light Camp serves multiple functions, effectively combining spaces for dining, meditation, and recreational activities. Architectural planning emphasizes the importance of spatial relationships, ensuring that each area is purposefully designed to enhance user experience. For instance, the restaurant encourages communal engagement, while meditation zones offer solitude and tranquility, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature and themselves. The design seeks to establish a balance between communal interaction and individual reflection, making it a versatile space.

The camp's layout is cleverly organized around the existing topography and natural features. The design employs a triangular form that radiates outward, promoting accessibility and visibility while preserving the natural landscape. This strategic arrangement ensures that visitors can fully engage with the environment, enjoying picturesque views and the soothing sounds of the forest. Pathways connect various zones, creating a fluid movement throughout the camp that complements the natural flow of the terrain.

Materiality plays a significant role in the project's success, with careful consideration given to the selection of materials that harmonize with the surroundings. Wooden rods are primarily used for façade treatments, bringing warmth and texture to the structure while allowing it to blend into the wooded backdrop. Complementing the wood, metal structures provide necessary support, ensuring durability without compromising aesthetic integrity. Additionally, the use of polystyrene insulation enhances energy efficiency, addressing sustainability concerns while maintaining comfortable indoor environments. Glass elements are strategically integrated into the design to draw in natural light and establish a visual connection to the picturesque surroundings.

One of the standout features of the Stone Light Camp is its unique approach to light design. By orienting spaces to maximize natural light flow, the architecture minimizes reliance on artificial lighting, fostering an environment that elevates the overall experience. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the day creates a dynamic atmosphere, further connecting visitors to the natural rhythms of the environment. This thoughtful lighting approach not only enhances the aesthetic qualities of the interior spaces but also influences the mood and well-being of occupants.

The design includes specialized areas such as the silence chamber and meditation spaces, both of which focus on fostering an atmosphere of tranquility. The silence chamber is acoustically designed to eliminate external noise, creating a serene escape within the camp that allows for focused meditation and introspection. Additionally, the integration of psychological comfort through natural elements is a critical aspect of the design ethos. Careful landscaping complements the architecture, encouraging the growth of local flora and fauna while reinforcing the overall mission of sustainability and eco-friendliness.

Sustainability is deeply embedded in the project’s philosophy, as evidenced by the incorporation of systems such as rainwater catchment and the utilization of locally sourced materials. These elements not only reduce environmental impact but also promote a sense of place, aligning the camp with local traditions and practices. By choosing materials and systems that respect the natural context, the architects have created an establishment that is both functional and environmentally responsible.

The Stone Light Camp is a model of thoughtful architectural design that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while providing essential spaces for relaxation and recreation. By balancing function, sustainability, and a deep connection to the environment, the project stands as a significant contribution to contemporary architecture. For anyone interested in detailed insights, it is worthwhile to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that underpin this compelling project, as they reveal the intricate thought processes and innovative ideas that have shaped its realization.
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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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