Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Heat Insulation Create a Sustainable Retreat for Coastal Trekkers

Author:
Umit Hazal Gulsan
Charred Wooden Shingles and Heat Insulation Create a Sustainable Retreat for Coastal Trekkers

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and advanced thermal insulation, the design integrates traditional materials to create a functional retreat for hikers along the Latvian coast, fostering a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a rainwater collection system to enhance sustainability.
02
Features an air gap for improved thermal performance.
03
Incorporates a comfort net area designed for relaxation after hiking.
04
Constructed with OCB cladding for structural stability and eco-friendliness.
05
Strategically positioned large windows to maximize natural light and views.

### Overview
The Trekking Cabin, located along the Latvian coast near the Baltic Sea, serves as a retreat for hikers seeking rest and revitalization in a natural setting. Drawing from traditional architectural motifs of Latvia, the design blends cultural elements with modern aesthetics and emphasizes environmental responsibility. The intent is to create a functional space that offers not only shelter but also a sense of familiarity and connection to the surrounding landscape.

### Material and Structural Strategy
The cabin's design incorporates a carefully selected materials palette that underscores aesthetic appeal and functionality. The exterior features wood cladding that enhances thermal performance while integrating the structure into its natural environment. Additional elements include an insulating air gap, water-resistant roofing materials, and sustainably sourced oriented strand board (OSB) cladding to promote structural stability. Large strategically placed windows are designed to maximize natural light and create visual continuity with the outdoors.

Internally, the layout balances communal and private spaces, with sleeping quarters distributed across upper and lower levels, while the ground floor accommodates cooking and socialization areas. Design elements, such as a central living space and pathways that connect the unit to its surroundings, encourage interaction among users. Unique features include an integrated rainwater collection system and designated areas for relaxation, thereby enhancing both sustainability and user experience.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`

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
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy