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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Enhancing Ecological Retreats

Author:
Ian Lambert
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Enhancing Ecological Retreats
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design creates a series of coastal cabins that promote ecological sustainability and offer a serene retreat for travelers seeking immersion in nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design, optimizing interior space and natural light.
04
Includes communal seating areas to promote social interaction among guests.
05
Employs a compost toilet system, reducing environmental impact and water use.

### Project Overview

The Amber Core consists of a series of timber cabins located along the coastline of Latvia, designed to enhance the travel experience along the amber road trail. The intent is to provide visitors with a space for reflection and rejuvenation while fostering a connection to the surrounding environment. The cabins are crafted to harmonize with the natural landscape, drawing inspiration from the qualities of amber, which symbolize endurance and the passage of time.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The design of the Amber Core incorporates a thoughtful spatial arrangement, allowing each cabin to serve as a sanctuary for guests while maximizing views of the natural surroundings. Features such as strategic viewing ports frame captivating vistas and foster contemplative experiences. Communal spaces within the cabins, including areas for social interaction and cooking, reinforce traditional travel lifestyles, encouraging shared moments among visitors. The layout is flexible, with multi-functional areas that include fold-out beds and adaptable seating arrangements, catering to diverse visitor needs.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Emphasizing ecological harmony, the material selection for the Amber Core reflects a commitment to sustainability and durability. Structural timber frames provide both aesthetic and practical benefits, while timber shingle cladding enhances the cabins' integration with the forested surroundings. Corten steel offers a weathered appearance that evolves over time, complementing the natural environment. Internally, plywood brings warmth and a tactile connection to the outdoors. The inclusion of solar panels supports energy independence, and a compost toilet system promotes self-sufficiency in waste management, aligning with environmentally conscious design principles.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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