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Charred Wooden Shingles and Elevated Design Foster Connection in Coastal Retreat

Author:
Aleksandra Leszczyńska
Charred Wooden Shingles and Elevated Design Foster Connection in Coastal Retreat

Project in-detail

Elevated on slender poles and clad in charred wooden shingles, this retreat seamlessly integrates with the coastal landscape while offering versatile communal spaces for relaxation and interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design minimizes land disturbance and enhances views of the coastline.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide aesthetic appeal and improve weather resistance.
03
Multi-purpose interiors incorporate built-in seating to maximize space utility.
04
Large windows create strategic sight lines connecting interior and exterior landscapes.
05
Use of sustainable materials emphasizes environmental responsibility in construction.

## Overview

The "Two Face" project is situated along Latvia's Amber Road, an area defined by its dualistic landscapes of a dynamic coastline and dense forest. The design aims to enhance the visitor experience by fostering a connection with both natural environments, creating a retreat for relaxation and contemplation that respects the surrounding ecology.

## Spatial Strategy and Functionality

The architectural concept responds to its contrasting landscapes: from the beach, it resembles a lifeguard cabin, while from the forest it presents as a treehouse. This duality encourages varied engagement depending on the viewer's perspective, merging distinct experiences within a unified structure. The building's elevation on slender poles minimizes its ecological footprint and optimizes panoramic views of both the ocean and the forest. Internally, pragmatic multi-purpose spaces are designed for relaxation, dining, and social interaction, with built-in furniture that enhances functionality without compromising livability.

## Materiality and Environmental Considerations

The exterior features a dark wooden cladding that contrasts with the vivid landscape, while the interior utilizes lighter, warm-toned wood paneling, creating a sense of warmth and comfort. Large glass windows maximize natural light and frame scenic views, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior. This design respects the natural terrain, preserving local flora and fauna while offering varied vantage points. Sustainability is a priority, with materials chosen for their durability and harmony with the environment, emphasizing the project's commitment to ecological integrity.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
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