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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Embrace Nature in Sustainable River Cabins

Authors:
Tobias Keller, Stefan Scheid
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Embrace Nature in Sustainable River Cabins

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber integrate seamlessly into the natural landscape, creating a series of sustainable cabins that foster a deep connection to the surrounding environment while providing essential accommodation for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sustainably sourced charred wooden shingles enhance durability and weather resistance.
02
Raised foundations elevate cabins above potential flooding, ensuring year-round accessibility.
03
Common areas feature native landscaping that supports local biodiversity.
04
Glass elements optimize natural light while maintaining a seamless outdoor connection.
05
The bent A-frame design improves structural integrity and aesthetic appeal in the landscape.
The Venta Vēna project represents a thoughtful integration of architecture within the natural landscape along the Venta River in Latvia. Designed with a focus on sustainability and local ecological conditions, the project encompasses several cabins that serve as accommodation for visitors. These structures are crafted to promote interaction with the surrounding environment and support community engagement.

The project’s main function is to provide a retreat that fosters a connection to nature while offering essential amenities for users. The adaptable cabin designs include sleeping areas, communal spaces, and outdoor terraces, facilitating various activities ranging from individual reflection to group gatherings. The architectural design incorporates local materials, connecting the structures to the regional identity and ensuring their compatibility with the natural surroundings.

The luxurious choice of sustainably sourced timber as the primary material, paired with transparent glass elements, fosters a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors. The steeply pitched roofs not only contribute to aesthetic cohesion with traditional Latvian architecture but also enhance functionality by effectively managing rainwater and snow accumulation. Concrete foundations provide stability and longevity, while steel reinforcements ensure structural integrity.

Particularly unique to Venta Vēna is its emphasis on ecological regeneration. The site has been designed to incorporate a micro-ecosystem, enhancing local biodiversity through the creation of wildlife habitats and native landscaping. This aspect of the project reflects a fundamental understanding of environmental sustainability and the importance of preserving natural ecosystems. A wooden walkway connects the cabins, elevating them above potential floodwaters and providing a practical solution to the region's environmental challenges.

Moreover, the project integrates elements that promote community interaction. Shared amenities such as docks for boating and communal gathering spaces encourage collaboration among visitors and residents. The design intentionally cultivates social interactions, positioning the project as more than just an accommodation facility, but rather as a centerpiece for community revitalization.

The Venta Vēna project exemplifies a contemporary architectural response to both social and environmental needs. By exploring architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, readers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the project's design approach and its contributions to sustainable architecture in the context of Latvian culture. Further details about this project highlight its innovative features in the realm of architecture.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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