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Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Spaces Harmonize in a Residential Artist Retreat

Authors:
Cristina Chen, Leticia naomi Umehara, Maria fernanda del giovannino de Oliveira, Larah agostinho Barbosa
Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Spaces Harmonize in a Residential Artist Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and large movable shutters, the design creates a seamless blend of interior flexibility and exterior connection within a residential space aimed at fostering artistic creation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide a weather-resistant façade while enhancing aesthetic appeal.
02
Large movable shutters allow for adaptable privacy and integration with the natural surroundings.
03
The design incorporates habitats for local bat species, promoting biodiversity within the site.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural elements, ensuring sustainability and durability.
05
Flexible interior spaces cater to various artistic practices, enhancing functionality for inhabitants.
The Painters' Lake House is a residential and artistic workspace located near Cernoses Lake in Latvia. Reflecting a balance between functionality and environmental sensitivity, this architectural project serves as a home for a family of artists while providing a creative space for their work. The design facilitates interaction with the surrounding landscape, promoting an immersive experience that supports both domestic life and artistic endeavors.

The building’s layout is organized into distinct zones, accommodating private living spaces alongside communal workshop areas. This spatial arrangement encourages a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor environments, emphasizing the relationship between the occupants and nature. Expansive openings and large movable shutter doors allow for flexible use of space and control over privacy, fostering an adaptable living environment.

Unique Integration of Materiality and Ecology
A defining characteristic of the Painters' Lake House is its thoughtful selection of materials, primarily sourced from local resources. The use of Pinus species wood for the exterior and interior finishes resonates with the traditional architectural language of Latvia, while also aligning with sustainable design practices. The wooden façade not only provides aesthetic appeal but also acts as a protective barrier against the elements.

The project employs concrete and steel for structural integrity, ensuring the building's longevity while maintaining a lightweight appearance. Additionally, innovative ecological considerations are evident, such as the incorporation of habitats for local bat species, which enhances the site’s biodiversity. This approach underscores the architectural project's commitment to environmental stewardship, making it distinct in its design philosophy.

Spatial Organization and Functionality
The Painters' Lake House's interior is carefully structured to support both artistic creation and family life. On the ground floor, the living area merges with the kitchen and dining space, creating an open social environment that is conducive to family interaction. Adjacent to these areas, a flexible workshop equipped for artistic production allows for easy transformation, catering to various creative processes.

Upstairs, private quarters are designed to offer comfort and tranquility, with natural light flooding the spaces. The presence of an adaptable art studio allows artists to tailor their environment according to specific projects. This focus on function highlights the project’s unique approach to blending residential and creative requirements under one roof.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural design elements and technical specifications, it is encouraged to explore the architectural plans and sections that detail the structural and spatial concepts of the Painters' Lake House. An in-depth review of the architectural designs and ideas will provide further insights into what makes this project a noteworthy example of contemporary architecture in a natural setting.
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MICROHOME
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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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