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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Embrace Community Gathering in Latvian Coastal Retreat

Author:
Alexandre Cisneiros
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Embrace Community Gathering in Latvian Coastal Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this Latvian coastal retreat fosters a blend of communal and individual spaces for artistic and poetic endeavors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced pine wood, the project emphasizes sustainability through regional materials.
02
The bent A-frame design integrates seamlessly with the coastal landscape while maximizing interior space.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide weather resistance and a distinctive aesthetic that enhances durability.
04
A communal gathering area encourages collaboration, fostering connections among artists and visitors.
05
Natural insulation materials enhance energy efficiency while maintaining a minimal environmental footprint.
The Pavilosta Poet Huts project is an architectural initiative located in the coastal town of Pavilosta, Latvia. This project focuses on providing a setting that supports creative endeavors and communal interaction while respecting the local cultural and environmental context. The design harmonizes with its surroundings through the integration of timber structures that reflect the region's fishing heritage. It serves as a retreat for poets and artists, offering a balance between private spaces and communal areas, facilitating both solitude and collaboration.

Innovative Spatial Configuration
The layout of the Poet Huts is characterized by a central communal gathering space that promotes interaction among users. This space is flanked by individual huts designed for quiet retreat. The architecture features a pitched roof and large openings, enhancing natural ventilation and light. This design maximizes views of the surrounding landscape while minimizing the visual impact on the site. Each hut includes basic amenities such as living areas and kitchens, ensuring that the needs of occupants are met while encouraging a communal atmosphere.

Sustainability and Materiality
The project emphasizes sustainability through the careful selection of materials. Predominantly, locally sourced pine wood is used for its structural framework and cladding. This choice not only reduces carbon emissions associated with transportation but also establishes a connection to the site’s natural resources. Natural insulation materials are employed for energy efficiency, contributing to the overall environmental responsibility of the project. The use of glass for windows and openings aids in achieving transparency, allowing occupants to engage with nature while remaining sheltered.

Architectural Character and Community Engagement
One of the unique features of the Pavilosta Poet Huts is the design's focus on cultivating community engagement. The architecture is intended to be adaptable for various purposes, accommodating poetry readings, workshops, and social gatherings. The integration of a meditation garden further enriches the experience by providing tranquil outdoor spaces for reflection and inspiration. The approach is both functional and culturally relevant, ensuring that the design resonates with local traditions while serving contemporary needs.

The Pavilosta Poet Huts project represents a thoughtful architectural response to community needs, sustainability, and cultural heritage. For deeper insights into the structure and design methodologies, explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas that illustrate fundamental aspects of this project.
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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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