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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Serene Spaces for Creative Retreat

Author:
Elvir Gazic
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Serene Spaces for Creative Retreat

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the architecture harmoniously integrates into its natural surroundings, providing a tranquil sanctuary for artists seeking inspiration and community connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance, providing a unique finish.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels form the primary structure, offering both strength and reduced carbon footprint.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for optimal natural light penetration while maintaining a compact footprint.
04
Green roofs are integrated into each hut, promoting biodiversity and improving thermal insulation.
05
Private and communal spaces are seamlessly connected through organic pathways that encourage exploration and interaction.
The Pavilosta Poet Huts represent a thoughtful intersection of architecture and nature, specifically designed for the artistic community in Pavilosta, Latvia. This project serves as both a living space and a creative hub for poets and artists, fostering collaboration and inspiration in a serene environment. The design reflects an understanding of the cultural significance of the location, merging architectural ideas with the evocative landscapes that surround it.

At its core, the project symbolizes a commitment to sustainability and community engagement. The huts are tactically situated to maximize their integration with the natural surroundings, echoing the gentle curves of the nearby river and allowing for views that enhance the residents' connection to their environment. Each element of the project has been carefully planned to promote well-being among its users while encouraging artistic expression.

The architectural design features several important components, starting with the selection of materials. Wood plays a prominent role in the construction of the huts, both for structural purposes and as exterior cladding, providing a warm, inviting aesthetic that connects with the wooded landscape. Complementing the wooden structures is the use of stone for foundations, ensuring each hut’s stability and resilience. The choice of materials not only emphasizes a natural look but also supports the project's sustainable ethos.

An innovative feature of the Pavilosta Poet Huts is the green roofs, which offer numerous benefits such as thermal insulation and rainwater management. This design choice reflects a unique approach to blending architecture with the ecosystem, transforming the roofs into living landscapes that promote biodiversity. The huts showcase varied heights and slopes in their roofs, following the natural topography of the site and further embedding them within the landscape.

The layout of the project includes both private and communal spaces, highlighting the importance of community interaction among its residents. A multifunctional area serves as a workshop and gathering space, along with dedicated dining and meditation areas, all designed to encourage collaboration and sharing of ideas. This attention to communal facilities exemplifies the intent behind the project—to create an environment where creativity can flourish through connectivity among artists.

Another notable aspect of the architectural design is the thoughtful orientation of the huts. They are strategically placed to take advantage of natural light throughout the day, enhancing the aesthetic quality of the interiors while promoting energy efficiency. This design strategy also addresses practical concerns such as ventilation and comfort, ensuring that each space remains livable throughout various seasons.

The Pavilosta Poet Huts embody an architectural response to the needs of the creative community within a specific geographical context, illustrating how modern design can respect and enhance its surroundings. By carefully considering the relationship between the built and natural environments, this project successfully creates a reflective and inspiring atmosphere for artists.

For those interested in a deeper exploration of this project, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and details will provide further insights into the design intentions and innovative solutions employed in the development of the Pavilosta Poet Huts. Understanding these architectural aspects will enrich appreciation for how this project serves both its users and the broader ecological context.
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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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