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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

Project in-detail

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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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.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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