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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Elevate a Coastal Retreat Design

Author:
Mark Johnson
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Elevate a Coastal Retreat Design

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this coastal retreat harmonizes with the environment while providing a communal space that encourages connection among visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to reduce the carbon footprint.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes interior space and natural lighting.
04
Elevated structure allows for vegetation growth underneath, maintaining local ecology.
05
Operable wall panels facilitate cross-ventilation and adaptive thermal comfort.
The Trekking Cabin represents a thoughtful exploration of architecture and design situated along the picturesque coastline of Latvia. This project embodies both functionality and a deep appreciation for the natural environment. Designed as a retreat for visitors, the Trekking Cabin engages with its surroundings while providing practical shelter and a space for community interaction. The cabin is not just a physical structure but a conceptual bridge that connects people to the landscape, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and cultural context in contemporary architecture.

This architectural project highlights the significance of local building traditions while adapting them for modern use. The design takes cues from traditional Latvian structures, characterized by their sloped roofs that effectively respond to the region's unpredictable weather patterns. The tall, pitched roof serves a dual purpose: it provides aesthetic appeal while facilitating rainwater management and enhancing thermal performance. This responsiveness to the environment is a core tenet of the cabin's architectural expression.

The structure is elevated on a carefully considered foundation that both protects it from potential flooding and minimizes disturbance to the landscape. By lifting the cabin off the ground, the design enhances the feeling of lightness and ensures that local flora can thrive beneath. This elevated base not only maintains the natural site conditions but also offers occupants sweeping views of the Baltic Sea, encouraging a strong connection to nature.

In terms of materiality, the Trekking Cabin employs a selection of sustainable materials that support both aesthetics and function. Wood is the predominant material, used for framing and cladding, selected for its local availability, warm aesthetic, and excellent insulating properties. The incorporation of glass elements allows for ample natural light, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces while bringing the scenic landscape into the living areas. Metal components play a crucial role in structural support, ensuring durability, particularly in the face of coastal winds. Additionally, composite materials may be utilized in the roofing system to reinforce durability against the elements while providing necessary insulation.

The interior layout of the cabin is designed to foster community interactions, with spaces designated for gathering alongside areas for solitude. This approach encourages social engagement among visitors while providing personal retreats for reflection and rest. The design prioritizes flexibility, allowing spaces to adapt to diverse uses, from intimate family gatherings to larger group assemblies. This focus on community underscores the cabin's role as a hub for connection and experience in nature.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project, particularly in how it addresses both the physical and experiential aspects of the user’s journey. The integration of operable panels within the wall system allows for cross-ventilation, enhancing comfort without relying solely on mechanical systems. These thoughtful design choices reflect an understanding of the local climate, ensuring that the cabin remains both inviting and responsive to varying environmental conditions.

Moreover, the overall aesthetic of the Trekking Cabin complements its coastal setting, creating a harmonious visual relationship with the landscape. The structure's form and materiality convey a sense of belonging within the environment while also standing out as a modern expression of architecture that honors tradition.

Visitors are encouraged to delve deeper into the project's details by exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs. Each element contributes to a fuller understanding of how this cabin operates within its context and reflects a commitment to sustainable architecture that respects its surroundings. The Trekking Cabin serves as an inviting example of how contemporary architecture can celebrate local culture and natural landscapes, making it a worthwhile subject for further exploration.
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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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