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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glazed Facades Defining A Sustainable Family Living Environment

Authors:
Andrea daniela Avila ramirez, Hermella Markos, Akash Gurramkonda, Abhishek Ojha
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glazed Facades Defining A Sustainable Family Living Environment

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and extensive glazing, the design creates a seamless integration between interior living spaces and the surrounding Latvian landscape, facilitating a communal environment for two families.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates sliding partitions for flexible interior configurations catering to communal living.
03
Features extensive glazing that minimizes energy use while maximizing natural light.
04
Includes a dedicated studio space designed for artistic collaboration and adaptability.
05
Utilizes locally sourced materials, emphasizing sustainability and regional identity.
The "Contemporary Orthodox" architectural design project harmoniously integrates traditional Latvian vernacular architecture with modern design principles. Situated in Latvia’s natural landscape, the project serves as a residential space for two families and includes areas designed for creative endeavors. This approach emphasizes communal living while enhancing individual experiences within the shared environment.

Unique Design Approach and Integrative Features

The project is distinguished by its focus on adaptability and modularity in design. Employing a layout that promotes communal living while ensuring privacy, the architecture incorporates sliding partitions to create flexible spaces that cater to the evolving needs of the inhabitants. The ground floor features an expansive co-living area characterized by large glass facades that dissolve the barriers between indoor and outdoor environments, effectively bringing nature into the living spaces.

Additionally, the first floor allows for the construction of various configurations for private quarters. This arrangement is conducive to different family sizes and lifestyles, making the project suitable for diverse occupants. Integrative outdoor paths connect the internal areas with natural surroundings, enabling residents to experience and interact with the environment directly.

Materials and Sustainability

Material choice is fundamental to the project's ideology. The use of spruce wood for interior finishes brings warmth, while concrete elements offer structural integrity and modern appeal. Limestone is incorporated strategically, reflecting local traditions and enhancing regional authenticity. Extensive glazing throughout the design minimizes energy consumption by maximizing natural light and thermal efficiency, demonstrating a commitment to environmental sustainability.

The preservation of an existing tree near the entrance signifies a dedication to environmental stewardship, melding greenery with the architectural footprint. The project also fosters creativity through a dedicated studio space catering to artists, symbolizing a blend of living and creative work. Featuring movable furniture and partitions, this space can be adapted for collaboration or solitary artistic endeavors.

For detailed insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs of the "Contemporary Orthodox" project, readers are encouraged to further explore the visual presentation associated with this project. The architectural ideas and integrative solutions presented here offer a comprehensive view of thoughtful design in contemporary architecture.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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