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Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Harmonize in a Sustainable Community Space

Authors:
Eric Hurtt, Jeffrey Lazuka
Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Harmonize in a Sustainable Community Space
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and local stone, the design integrates sustainable practices into a community space that promotes mindfulness and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural integrity.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Integrates a natural water filtration system using locally sourced materials.
05
Landscape design includes dedicated meditation areas promoting ecological awareness.

### Overview

The project focuses on the restoration and revitalization of a historic barn in Latvia, emphasizing eco-friendly design while preserving the structure's historical significance. The intent is to create a space that fosters a connection with nature and supports reflective practices, in alignment with ecological conservation and human wellness principles.

### Preservation and Modern Integration

The restoration process prioritizes the retention and enhancement of original elements, such as the existing brick walls, which highlight historical craftsmanship. New windows have been carefully introduced to improve daylighting while maintaining the barn's rustic character. A significant aspect of the design is the site layout, which facilitates interaction with the surrounding landscape through features such as a meditation lawn, sauna, and garden spaces, encouraging outdoor activities and mindfulness practices.

### Sustainable Materiality and Innovative Features

The material palette consists of locally sourced and sustainable resources, meaningfully merging the old with the new. Local stone is used for structural integrity, while brick frames complement the original design. Timber features prominently in the sauna and landscape elements, further emphasizing sustainability. Extensive glass sections offer expansive views of the exterior landscape, enhancing the sense of connection with nature.

Innovative systems have been integrated, including a natural water filtration system employing gravel and charcoal, reflecting a commitment to ecological principles. Solar panels discreetly incorporated into the slate roofing facilitate renewable energy generation while respecting the barn’s historic aesthetic. The versatile interior design accommodates various community activities, such as yoga and art workshops, fostering inclusivity and engagement.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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