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Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Oak Create a Sustainable Retreat in the Latvian Forest

Authors:
Alistair Aaron Ngui, Li Chun Ron
Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Oak Create a Sustainable Retreat in the Latvian Forest

Project in-detail

Constructed from locally sourced oak and clad in charred wooden shingles, the cabin serves as a sustainable retreat designed for immersive experiences in the Latvian forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced oak to minimize environmental impact.
02
Features charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design that optimizes space and functionality.
04
Utilizes adjustable folding benches to maximize interior adaptability.
05
Designed with sliding windows for natural ventilation and unobstructed views.

### Project Overview

The Vista Latvia project is situated in a forested area of Latvia, aiming to provide a retreat that reflects and respects its natural surroundings. The design intent centers on sustainability, user comfort, and a connection with the landscape, creating an ideal environment for outdoor activity and relaxation. The cabin's architectural form draws inspiration from traditional Latvian gabled houses, blending contemporary aesthetics with familiar regional elements.

### Ergonomics and User-Centric Design

The cabin is characterized by its ergonomic approach, featuring adjustable elements that enhance usability and comfort for a variety of activities. The internal layout emphasizes adaptability, accommodating both individual and communal use. Flexibility is further supported by innovative features such as sliding windows, which not only enhance the visual connection to the outdoors but also facilitate natural ventilation. The open design fosters a seamless flow between interior and exterior spaces, reinforcing the user's engagement with nature.

### Material Selection and Environmental Integration

Local materials play a critical role in the project's sustainability focus. The primary structural component is oak wood, chosen for its durability and regional availability. Stainless steel elements provide longevity, while a wooden shingle roof complements the existing forest aesthetics and protects against weather conditions. Thermal efficiency is ensured by the inclusion of aluminum foil insulation, further supporting the cabin's performance. The materials collectively respond to seasonal changes, allowing the built environment to harmonize with its ecological context.

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

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Competition organisers

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

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