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Charred Wooden Shingles and Laminated Timber Create Inviting Community Huts in Latvia

Authors:
Kaikang Shen, Yijia Wang, Yaran Zhang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Laminated Timber Create Inviting Community Huts in Latvia

Project in-detail

With its charred wooden shingles and warm laminated timber, the architectural design harmonizes with the Latvian landscape, offering a series of communal huts that foster both social interaction and personal retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing a distinctive aesthetic that blends with the natural surroundings.
02
Laminated timber panels contribute to structural integrity while reducing the carbon footprint through sustainable sourcing.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes space efficiency, creating open interiors that encourage communal interaction.
04
Innovative drainage solutions are integrated into the landscape to manage rainwater sustainably, enhancing ecological responsibility.
05
Prototypes are tailored for diverse living arrangements, catering to singles, families, and communal gatherings in a cohesive community setting.
This architectural project presents a thoughtful and innovative design that is rooted in the landscape of Latvia. By combining both private and communal spaces, it strives to create a living environment that fosters community engagement and individual comfort. Its overall design intention reflects a blend of modern architectural principles with the rich traditions of Latvian culture, making it a relevant and meaningful addition to its geographical context.

The project represents a small, self-contained village-like setting, characterized by a series of structures designed to promote both social interaction and personal retreat. The concept of a "small city" encapsulates the essence of community living, where everyday life unfolds in spaces that encourage connection among residents while still offering opportunities for solitude. This duality is crucial to creating an organic habitat that respects personal boundaries in an increasingly interconnected world.

Functionally, the project is designed to accommodate a variety of living arrangements, catering to different family structures and social dynamics. The architectural approach includes prototypes for families, singles, and communal gatherings, all of which reflect the needs of modern residents. Each unit, often referred to as "poet huts," is designed with simplicity and efficiency in mind while ensuring that they resonate with the surrounding natural environment.

Key elements of the design include the use of timber as the primary cladding material, which aligns with local traditions and offers a harmonious aesthetic that integrates the buildings into the landscape. Laminated timber is also employed for structural purposes, contributing to both the sustainability and warmth of the environment. Expansive glass panels are strategically placed throughout the design, enhancing interior spaces with natural light and creating a visual connection to the exterior landscape. This integration of materials not only emphasizes the importance of environmental awareness but also enhances the overall user experience within each unit.

The spatial organization of the project plays a significant role in its success. The carefully considered layout features an interplay of private homes and communal areas, including dining spaces and multipurpose zones. A central public courtyard acts as the heart of the development, drawing residents together for social interactions and activities. This thoughtful arrangement cultivates a sense of belonging and community, further emphasized by the incorporation of green spaces that provide a respite from daily routines.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project, such as its focus on social sustainability. By emphasizing communal living, the design facilitates a lifestyle that encourages collaboration and interaction among residents while still allowing for moments of personal retreat. Additionally, the project draws upon the rich auditory traditions of Latvia through its architectural forms, which echo traditional log cabins in their appearance and function.

The project’s dedication to cultural integration is also noteworthy. Each aspect of the design is infused with elements that harken back to Latvian architectural heritage, allowing the built environment to resonate with local identity. This, combined with a commitment to ecological principles, establishes a holistic approach to architecture that marries sustainability with cultural relevance.

As the architectural details unfold, the reader is invited to delve deeper into the project presentation for an enriching exploration of the various architectural plans, sections, and designs involved. By examining these elements, one can gain further insights into the architectural ideas that informed the design process and the careful considerations that shaped each aspect of this compelling project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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