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Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Crafting a Retreat Nestled in Nature

Authors:
Thomas Peters, Aksel Kemahlioglu, Buse Serbetci
Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Crafting a Retreat Nestled in Nature

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and local stone, this retreat seamlessly blends sustainable materials with the natural landscape, creating a tranquil guest house designed for comfort and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates recycled local stone from the original barn structure for historical continuity.
03
Features light wells that maximize natural illumination throughout the interior spaces.
04
Designed with communal areas strategically positioned to foster social interactions among guests.
05
Employs cross-laminated timber panels to improve structural stability and thermal performance.
The Ozolini Guest House is an architectural project that embodies a harmonious blend of local heritage and modern sensibilities in Latvia. The design represents not only a place for hospitality but also serves as a sanctuary that connects visitors with the surrounding environment. The guest house effectively integrates traditional Latvian architectural themes with contemporary design methodologies, creating a space that respects its context while providing comfort and functionality for its users.

The principal function of the Ozolini Guest House is to accommodate guests seeking a retreat into nature. This project is characterized by its dual focus on communal and private spaces, facilitating interaction among guests while allowing for personal moments of solitude. The layout is thoughtfully organized around a central axis, ensuring that communal areas—such as the living room and dining space—encourage social engagement, while the sleeping quarters are positioned for privacy and tranquility. This careful organization enhances the user experience, balancing the need for community and the desire for individual reflection.

Materiality plays a significant role in the design of the Ozolini Guest House. The architects chose a palette that includes concrete, timber, glass, and stone, providing a tactile richness that aligns with the natural surroundings. The use of concrete ensures structural stability and thermal mass, crucial for adapting to the fluctuating Latvian climate. Timber, utilized for cladding and flooring, infuses warmth into the interiors, creating an inviting atmosphere. Large glass panels are strategically placed to maximize natural light, fostering a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. By using stone recycled from the original barn structure, the project not only acknowledges its historical context but also emphasizes sustainability.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. The incorporation of light wells and carefully oriented openings enhances the natural lighting experience within the guest house. This consideration not only promotes energy efficiency but also serves to highlight shifts in mood throughout the day. The structure’s exterior reflects a contemporary aesthetic while paying homage to the traditional barn typology, ensuring that it blends into the picturesque landscape of Latvia. The design’s language conveys a sense of belonging, inviting visitors to engage with both the architecture and its environment.

Attention to detail is apparent in various features throughout the guest house, from the carefully calibrated placement of windows to the soft integration of thermal insulation materials. Such choices ensure that the building operates efficiently, aligned with contemporary architectural ideas focusing on sustainability. Multi-functional spaces are created within the design, accommodating diverse activities such as meditation and social gatherings, enhancing the utility of the guest house beyond simple accommodation.

In summary, the Ozolini Guest House is not just an architectural project; it is a thoughtfully designed experience that encourages a reflective relationship between its occupants and their natural surroundings. The combination of functionality, material richness, and respect for cultural context makes the project a standout example in contemporary architecture. For those interested in gaining deeper insights into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs of the Ozolini Guest House, exploring the detailed presentation of this project will provide a thorough understanding of its unique characteristics and design philosophy.
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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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