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Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glazing Create a Nature-Centric Guest Retreat

Author:
Lee Yeon hee
Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glazing Create a Nature-Centric Guest Retreat

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles envelop expansive glass panels, merging architectural integrity with the natural landscape to create a sustainable retreat designed for communal engagement and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and a distinctive texture.
02
Expansive glazing maximizes natural light while framing views of the Latvian landscape.
03
A bent A-frame design enhances structural stability and provides a unique visual profile.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels promote sustainability and reduce construction waste.
05
Skip floor levels encourage social interaction and fluid movement throughout the space.
The Teamakers Guest House is an architectural project located in Latvia, designed to provide a unique retreat experience that seamlessly integrates with the natural surroundings. This structure embodies the principles of modern architecture while prioritizing sustainable practices and user comfort. Its design encourages interaction with the environment, facilitating a connection between the interior and the exterior landscapes.

Design Features
The architectural design of the Teamakers Guest House emphasizes large expanses of glass, allowing for abundant natural light and views of the serene landscape. This integration of glazing not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also establishes a direct correlation between indoor and outdoor spaces. The spatial layout employs skip floor levels, creating a dynamic interplay between different areas of the house. This design choice enhances the flow of movement throughout the structure and promotes social interaction among guests.

Materiality is a critical component of this project. The use of concrete provides structural integrity while offering a contemporary aesthetic. Wood is prominently featured in the interiors, utilized for handrails, window frames, and furniture, contributing warmth and a natural texture to the environment. The combination of these materials facilitates a sense of harmony with the setting.

Unique Design Considerations
One standout aspect of the Teamakers Guest House is the strategic placement of outdoor spaces, such as terraces and communal areas. These zones serve as extensions of the interiors, allowing for outdoor activities and encouraging guests to engage with the natural environment. This design approach not only enhances the functionality of the space but also emphasizes the significance of nature in the overall retreat experience.

The skip floor layout is another distinct characteristic that differentiates this project from conventional guest house designs. By breaking away from a flat floor plan, it creates unique spatial relationships and enhances the overall user experience. Each level serves distinct functions, while maintaining visual connectivity throughout the house.

Sustainability is a core consideration within the architectural design. The project prioritizes local materials, reducing transportation emissions and aligning with environmentally friendly practices. The orientation of the building is carefully planned to optimize solar gain, further decreasing reliance on artificial heating and lighting.

Overall, the Teamakers Guest House represents a thoughtful blend of modern architecture and nature-centric design. The project's emphasis on materiality, innovative spatial organization, and commitment to sustainability contribute to its unique identity within the landscape. To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and ideas manifest in this design, readers are encouraged to explore the complete project presentation for a comprehensive understanding.
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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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