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Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Create a Serene Retreat for Mindfulness and Tea-Making

Authors:
Kaidi Põder, Robin pierre Vinay
Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Create a Serene Retreat for Mindfulness and Tea-Making

Project in-detail

Nestled within a tranquil forest, the use of charred wooden shingles and locally sourced stone crafts a harmonious space that not only invites visitors to connect with nature but also serves as an educational hub for tea-making and mindfulness practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building utilizes carbonized wood through the shou sugi ban technique, enhancing durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates locally sourced stone, establishing a strong connection with the surrounding landscape.
03
Features a split-form design, allowing distinct public and private spaces for an enriched guest experience.
04
Designed with large, strategically placed windows to maximize natural light and views of the forest.
05
Employs renewable energy solutions, including biomass and hydropower, to ensure sustainability throughout operations.
The Tea Makers Guest House represents a thoughtful integration of architecture, nature, and local culture in a serene forest setting in Latvia. This project is not merely a space for accommodation; it is an experiential center that fosters a close connection to the environment and promotes cultural practices through the art of tea-making and meditation. The design focuses on sustainability, utilizing local materials and engaging with the history of the site, which previously housed a traditional barn.

Functionally, the Tea Makers Guest House serves multiple purposes. It provides hillsides and forest views for visitors seeking relaxation, and the design encourages communal activities through dedicated spaces for workshops and gatherings. The architectural layout distinguishes between public and private spaces, ensuring that guests can enjoy both interaction and solitude. The first floor contains wide-open areas for social events and educational workshops, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in local traditions and hands-on experiences related to tea-making and wellness activities like yoga. The upper levels provide intimate guest rooms that create a sanctuary atmosphere, facilitating peaceful retreats.

The architectural design incorporates unique features that reflect a modern sensibility while respecting local architectural traditions. A split-form design allows for distinct experiences within the same building, creating a flow that is both functional and visually interesting. The roof's angled profile is not only aesthetically appealing but also optimizes natural light and ventilation, a consideration that facilitates energy efficiency throughout the guest house. Large windows serve to blur the lines between inside and out, inviting the picturesque landscape into the heart of the building.

Material selection plays a pivotal role in the integrity and sustainability of this project. Carbonized wood is prominently used for the façade, derived from the original structure of the barn. This method not only preserves historical elements but enhances the material's durability while offering a natural insulation solution. The original stone walls provide thermal mass and serve as a tangible connection to the local history, embodying the character of the region. The strategic placement of glass enhances the visitor experience by ensuring ample natural light floods the interior, promoting a sense of openness and tranquility.

The Tea Makers Guest House also innovatively incorporates renewable energy systems. It is designed to operate using biomass and hydropower solutions, fostering a self-sustaining environment that educates guests about renewable practices. This strategy aligns with modern architectural ideas focused on minimizing environmental impact while maximizing user experience through thoughtful planning.

The project stands out in its commitment to community engagement and education. By focusing on the regional craft of tea-making and incorporating spaces for meditation, it serves as more than just a guest accommodation; it is envisioned as a community hub that promotes wellness, cultural appreciation, and environmental consciousness. The architectural solutions employed reflect this ethos, creating an environment that is not only functional but also meaningful.

In essence, the Tea Makers Guest House encapsulates a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary design, resulting in a space that resonates with both the natural landscape and the cultural heritage of the region. For readers interested in exploring this project further, I encourage you to delve into the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs to uncover the various dimensions of this engaging project and the innovative architectural ideas it embodies.
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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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