Get inspired!

16,544 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 Define a Fluid Space for Wellness in a Tranquil Landscape

Author:
Gilchristian Vidal
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define a Fluid Space for Wellness in a Tranquil Landscape

Project in-detail

Blending charred wooden shingles with cross-laminated timber, the design creates a serene retreat in a Latvian swamp, fostering wellness and connection through its flowing spaces dedicated to yoga and community.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design features a bent A-frame structure that enhances both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance while adding a distinct visual texture to the façade.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to rapid assembly and promote sustainability through local sourcing.
04
Four entry points symbolize spiritual portals, facilitating a deeper connection between the occupants and their surroundings.
05
The layout prioritizes open spaces that encourage natural light and airflow, enhancing the overall wellness experience.
Flow House is an architectural project located in the picturesque Latvian countryside, specifically within an area characterized by its serene swamps and vibrant natural landscape. This design embodies a careful consideration of both aesthetic and functional elements, representing a harmonious connection between the built environment and the natural world. Flow House serves as a dwelling space centered around wellness, emphasizing the principles of yoga, mindfulness, and balance, allowing its inhabitants to engage with nature while fulfilling their daily living needs.

The architectural design is informed by the fluidity of movement often associated with the practice of yoga. The concept of Flow House encapsulates themes of balance, spirituality, and the interplay of natural elements through its layout and structural choices. The form of the building is intentionally organic, featuring gentle curves and flowing lines that evoke the surrounding landscape, creating a seamless transition between inside and outside. This design approach fosters a tranquil and inviting atmosphere, encouraging residents to interact both with each other and with the natural environment.

The functionality of Flow House has been carefully considered, providing spaces that cater to various activities pivotal to a holistic lifestyle. At the heart of the project lies a multifunctional yoga space that serves not only as a place for physical practice but also as a communal area where inhabitants can gather and socialize. The open layout creates a sense of spaciousness and promotes movement, evoking a feeling of freedom and connection to the earth. The kitchen, another important area, is designed not just for cooking but as a space for nourishment and social interaction, further promoting a sense of community among residents.

The architectural details are noteworthy, with the careful selection of materials playing a crucial role in both aesthetics and sustainability. Flow House utilizes local timber as its primary construction material, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility and creating a warm, natural feel to the interior spaces. This choice not only allows the structure to resonate with its surroundings but also exemplifies modern sustainable practices, minimizing the carbon footprint associated with transportation and construction. The use of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) contributes to the building's modularity, facilitating efficient assembly and future adaptability if needed.

The design incorporates large windows strategically placed throughout the structure, allowing for ample natural light to filter in. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also creates a deeper connection between the indoor environment and the outdoor landscape. Sunlight plays a vital role in the overall ambiance, shifting throughout the day and illuminating various architectural features, encouraging a sense of well-being.

Unique design strategies evident in Flow House include its integration of multiple entry points that symbolize spiritual portals, fostering a deeper connection between the inhabitants and the surrounding environment. Each entry invites individuals into different realms of the home, breaking the conventional expectations of traditional house layouts and moving towards a more interconnected living experience. The organization of spaces emphasizes the idea of flow, facilitating a continuous movement throughout the home, which reflects natural rhythms and promotes a calming atmosphere.

Overall, Flow House represents a thoughtful culmination of architectural design and function, designed with care and respect for its surroundings. It is a testament to modern architectural ideas that prioritize sustainability and well-being, inviting residents to embrace a lifestyle deeply rooted in nature and mindfulness. For those interested in exploring this innovative project further, it is encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate its comprehensive approach and thoughtful execution. Delving into the details of Flow House may provide deeper insights into how design can respond to both human needs and environmental contexts while fostering a meaningful connection to the world around us.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
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 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy