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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Elevate Sustainable Retreats in Latvian Landscapes

Authors:
Gabriel Dominek, Solar Labrie, Jay Young, Joe Schollmeyer
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Elevate Sustainable Retreats in Latvian Landscapes
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Charred wooden shingles combined with cross-laminated timber create a sustainable retreat that harmonizes with Latvia's natural landscape, providing a functional space for trekkers to reconnect with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing a textured aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural efficiency and eco-friendliness.
03
Elevated cabins offer unobstructed views and minimize ecological disruption.
04
A bent A-frame design allows for optimal wind resistance and snow shedding.
05
Interior finishes incorporate traditional Latvian craftsmanship in a contemporary context.

### Project Overview

Set within the diverse landscapes of Latvia, the Amber Road Trekking Cabins aim to redefine the concept of shelter in nature. The design focuses on encouraging exploration and a deeper connection with the surrounding environment, functioning not merely as places of rest but as interactive installations that enhance the traveler’s experience of the wilderness.

### Spatial Configuration and Adaptability

The cabins are elevated to provide expansive views while minimizing ecological impact. This strategic positioning promotes interaction with natural elements such as forest canopies and shorelines. Large windows facilitate natural light and visual connectivity to the landscape, while open floor plans and multi-level layouts offer versatility for different user needs, from communal gatherings to private retreats.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The project employs Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) for its structural components, emphasizing sustainability through the use of materials sourced from Latvia’s forests. The incorporation of the Shou-Sugi-Ban technique for exterior finishes enhances the durability of the timber while providing an organic texture that integrates with the landscape. The interiors feature charcoal-stained wood and patterned panels that reflect local craftsmanship, reinforcing the connection to Latvian cultural heritage. These material choices align with eco-conscious construction practices, underscoring a commitment to minimal environmental impact.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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