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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Envelop an Art-Inspired Lakeside Residence

Authors:
Yiyang Sang, Wenjing Zhang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Envelop an Art-Inspired Lakeside Residence

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this lakeside residence seamlessly blends artistry with sustainable living, providing a unique space for both family life and creative expression.
5 key facts about this project
01
The residence incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized to create a strong yet lightweight structural framework.
03
Generous floor-to-ceiling windows facilitate abundant natural light while maximizing lake views.
04
An asymmetrical roof design aids in effective water drainage and adds visual interest.
05
Embedded sustainable features, such as bat houses, promote local biodiversity around the property.
The Painter's Lake House is a thoughtfully designed residence located on the picturesque shores of Cenasos Lake in Latvia. This architectural project exemplifies a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal, catering to the needs of a mixed-family environment while also embracing the natural landscape. The design represents a commitment to sustainability and reflects the artistic aspirations of the residents by offering both communal and private spaces suitable for creative endeavors.

At its core, the Painter's Lake House serves not only as a family residence but also as a workshop for artistic expressions. The layout has been meticulously planned to provide areas for collaboration while ensuring privacy when necessary. The integration of indoor and outdoor spaces is a notable aspect of the design, allowing for easy movement between the home and the surrounding natural environment. This fluid transition is achieved through large floor-to-ceiling windows that frame breathtaking views of the lake, filling the interiors with natural light and creating an inviting atmosphere.

Key architectural elements include the use of wood and glass, which play significant roles in both the structure and the aesthetics. Wooden cladding encapsulates the house, helping it to blend seamlessly with its surroundings, while large glass panels diminish the barriers between the inside and outside. This thoughtful combination enhances the livability of the home while promoting a connection with nature—a fundamental aspect of the project’s philosophy.

The project features an asymmetric roof design, which contributes not only to the visual interest of the building but also serves practical purposes. This design facilitates effective water drainage and allows for dynamic interior spaces with varying ceiling heights, thus promoting a sensation of openness. Outdoor spaces are equally prioritized; terraces and balconies encourage relaxation and interaction with the picturesque landscape, making them essential components of the overall living experience.

Inside, the spatial organization supports a modern lifestyle, where communal areas such as the kitchen and living room are open and flexible for gatherings, while private rooms are strategically placed to offer solitude. The choice of natural materials throughout, particularly the warm tones of the wood, creates an inviting ambiance. Skylights integrated into the design further enhance the interior by maximizing light penetration, establishing an airy quality that complements the home’s artistic identity.

Sustainability is a guiding principle in the architectural approach of this project. Passive design techniques are employed effectively, such as strategic orientation and window placements that enhance natural ventilation and daylighting. By supporting local biodiversity through eco-friendly features like embedded bat houses, the architecture respects and integrates with the surrounding environment, demonstrating a commitment to ecological responsibility.

The Painter's Lake House stands out as a model of modern architecture that emphasizes the importance of connecting residents to their environment while providing functional spaces that support both family life and artistic pursuits. Its design unfolds a narrative of sustainable interaction with nature, evident in every element from the carefully selected materials to the innovative architectural layout.

For those interested in exploring architectural ideas further, engaging with the project presentation will provide deeper insights. Elements such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and detailed architectural designs offer a more comprehensive understanding of this unique project and its thoughtful approach to living.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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