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Charred Wooden Shingles and Large Glass Panels Create a Serene Retreat in Latvia's Boglands

Authors:
Elham Akbari Kelishadi, Bahador Fallahiyan Sichani
Charred Wooden Shingles and Large Glass Panels Create a Serene Retreat in Latvia's Boglands
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The use of charred wooden shingles and expansive glass panels combines with thoughtful space optimization to create a tranquil yoga retreat that seamlessly integrates into the Latvian bog landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural strength and sustainability.
03
Features large glass panels that create a seamless connection between interior and nature.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to maximize space efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
05
Located in Latvia's unique bog landscape, enhancing the overall sensory experience.

## Overview

Located in the tranquil bog landscapes of Latvia, the yoga cabin serves as a retreat designed to enhance mental well-being and physical wellness. The project seeks to engage occupants with its natural surroundings, promoting a holistic experience that reflects the area’s unique topography and ecological qualities. The architectural design aims to facilitate a harmonious relationship between the structure and its environment, fostering a calming atmosphere suitable for yoga and meditation practices.

### Spatial Strategy

The cabin's layout is carefully organized into distinct functional zones, including areas for yoga, relaxation, dining, and utility purposes. The design encourages fluid movement throughout the spaces, ensuring a cohesive experience. Large windows and open areas enable a seamless interaction between indoor and outdoor environments, effectively drawing in natural light and framing views of the picturesque landscape. The central yoga hall is characterized by high ceilings that amplify its serene ambiance, while the interconnected kitchen and living areas promote communal engagement.

### Material Selection

A thoughtful selection of materials plays a significant role in shaping the aesthetic and tactile experience of the cabin. Timber cladding serves as the primary exterior material, corresponding with the organic quality of the surrounding environment. Large glass panels allow for abundant natural light, enhancing visual connectivity to the landscape. Concrete elements provide stability, while local wood is utilized in furniture, aligning with the project’s sustainable principles. Stone accents enrich both exterior and interior spaces, further grounding the design in its natural context. This materiality framework emphasizes durability and a minimalist aesthetic, contributing to the overall harmonious integration of the cabin within its environment.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

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