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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Walls Creating Serenity in a Timber Retreat

Authors:
Asude Aydın, Şengül Bulut
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Walls Creating Serenity in a Timber Retreat

Project in-detail

With charred wooden shingles and expansive glass walls seamlessly integrated into a tranquil forest setting, this design offers a unique retreat where mindfulness and nature converge in harmony.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
02
The design incorporates expansive glass walls to foster a seamless connection with nature.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to rapid construction and sustainability.
04
A bent A-frame structure maximizes interior space while minimizing visual impact on the landscape.
05
Each cabin resonates with a mindfulness ethos, encouraging user reflection and engagement with the surroundings.
The project presents a focused exploration of architecture as a means to foster a deeper connection between individuals and their natural surroundings. Situated in the tranquil landscapes of Latvia, this architectural design emphasizes the importance of walking and mindfulness, offering a pathway that leads to a series of cabins designed for contemplation and refuge. This careful arrangement serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, creating an immersive experience where architecture harmonizes with nature.

At the heart of this project is the intention to encourage a slower, more reflective approach to life. The architecture represents a shift away from the frenetic pace of modern living, inviting visitors to engage with their environment on a deeper level. The design concept prioritizes the act of walking, framing it as not merely a means of transportation but an essential part of the experience itself. Users are invited to traverse the path, with each step becoming an opportunity for meditation and reflection, ultimately enriching their appreciation for the surrounding landscape.

The project features an intricate pathway that weaves through dense woods, connecting various uniquely designed cabins scattered along its length. These cabins serve as multifunctional spaces, tailored for reflection, creativity, and connection with nature. Each unit is conceptually grounded in the idea of temporary shelter, allowing individuals to withdraw from the distractions of daily life and find solace in simplicity.

In terms of architectural details, the cabins exhibit a minimalist aesthetic, utilizing a combination of wood, glass, natural stone, and metal framing. The thoughtful choice of materials emphasizes sustainability and a sense of place. Wood is prominent throughout, serving not only for structural integrity but also enhancing warmth and comfort. Glass is incorporated into the cabin designs to facilitate glimpses of the landscape, bringing in natural light and fostering a connection between indoor and outdoor environments. The use of metal adds a contemporary touch, framing the timber structures and presenting a unique design language that balances traditional and modern elements.

The careful configuration of these cabins respects the natural terrain, showcasing a commitment to environmental consciousness. By positioning the cabins at strategic intervals along the path, the project offers diverse sightlines and experiences, allowing users to appreciate the progression of the landscape as they move. The architectural design promotes a relationship with nature that is both physical and psychological, encouraging users to engage with their surroundings in a meaningful way.

The unique approach within this project lies in its ability to blend recreational aspects with architectural ingenuity. It emphasizes the significance of movement and stillness, urging users to embrace both through its design. The meditation-focused architecture invites contemplation, and the walking path serves as a guide through the landscape, fostering sensory engagement and awareness.

This project is not merely an architectural endeavor; it is a thoughtfully crafted experience aimed at rejuvenating the human spirit through nature. It stands as an exemplary model of contemporary design that prioritizes mindfulness, sustainable practices, and the profound interplay between architecture and the environment. For more insights into the architectural plans, sections, and design elements that contribute to this project, readers are encouraged to explore the comprehensive presentation of the work. Experience the architectural ideas that shape this thoughtful journey through landscape and design, and consider how such spaces can influence our interactions with the world around us.
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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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