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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create a Seamless Retreat in Nature

Authors:
Aleksa Gajic, Milan Grujicic, Boris Ivanovic, Dusan Grujovic
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create a Seamless Retreat in Nature

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design integrates seamlessly with its forested surroundings, creating a flexible retreat that fosters a deep connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to enhance structural stability and aesthetic presence.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
03
Includes cross-laminated timber panels sourced from local forests to minimize environmental impact.
04
The elevated structure allows for natural ventilation and protects against moisture.
05
Features an open floor plan promoting flexible use and connection with the surrounding landscape.

### Overview
Located in a forested area of Latvia, the Temple of Nature emphasizes the intrinsic connection between humanity and the natural environment. Drawing inspiration from ancient Latvian beliefs that honor nature, the design seeks to create a contemporary interpretation of these values, offering users opportunities for intimate engagement with the wilderness. Central to the concept is the symbolic use of amber, reflecting the interplay between the earthly and the divine.

### Spatial Configuration and User Interaction
The building's design incorporates cantilevered wooden panels that extend outward, fostering a visual and physical dialogue with the surrounding landscape. Positioned above ground to adapt to varying terrains, this elevation enhances user safety and comfort, minimizing moisture-related issues and insect intrusion. The floor plan promotes flexibility, offering spaces for various activities such as sitting, sleeping, or meditating, thereby encouraging personal interaction with both the structure and the environment. Natural light is brought in through strategically placed glass panels, enhancing the user experience by allowing views of the forest and creating dynamic light patterns throughout the day.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The primary material, locally sourced wood, reflects traditional Latvian architecture while promoting environmental sustainability. This choice not only helps the building blend into its forest context but also reduces the overall carbon footprint of the project. Complementing the wooden elements, metal components may be used for structural integrity and aesthetic contrast, while a stone base provides a robust foundation, grounding the structure in its natural setting. The emphasis on renewable materials and design strategies aligned with the local ecosystem underscores a commitment to ecological sensitivity throughout the project.

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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

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