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Charred Wooden Shingles and Movable Walls in a Dual-Purpose Artistic Residence

Authors:
Cristina Chen, Leticia naomi Umehara, Maria fernanda del giovannino de Oliveira, Larah agostinho Barbosa
Charred Wooden Shingles and Movable Walls in a Dual-Purpose Artistic Residence

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and adaptable movable walls, this residence harmoniously blends artistic workspace with family living, fostering creativity in a serene natural setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
The residence incorporates movable walls that allow for dynamic space reconfiguration based on artistic needs.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and enhanced durability against weather conditions.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to the structure's sustainability and energy efficiency.
04
The bent A-frame design not only supports the roof but also maximizes interior volume and natural light.
05
Integrated bat shelters demonstrate a commitment to local biodiversity and environmental responsibility.
The Painters' Lake House is a thoughtfully designed architecture project situated near Cernotes Lake in Latvia, intended to serve both as a residence and a creative workspace for artists. This project represents a melding of functional living and imaginative expression, designed with the specific needs of creative individuals and their families in mind. It reflects the intrinsic relationship between the built environment and nature, capturing the essence of Latvian culture while providing a serene haven for artistic pursuits.

The Painters' Lake House combines domestic comforts with the practical requirements of an artistic workspace. The central design concept revolves around the integration of living quarters and a dedicated workshop space, fostering an environment conducive to creativity and collaboration. By doing so, it encourages a lifestyle where art and home are seamlessly connected, allowing inhabitants to oscillate between work and relaxation without the constraints typically associated with separate environments.

In terms of architectural design, the project features a compact, contemporary form that respects traditional Latvian structures. The building's form is defined by a pitched roof and robust façade that evoke the simplicity and strength of rural barns. This design not only resonates with local architectural language but also provides functional benefits including effective snow load management and passive solar heating through strategic use of glazing.

The material palette of the Painters' Lake House emphasizes natural materials that resonate with the surrounding landscape. Wood plays a significant role in both the structural framework and the exterior cladding, creating a warm and inviting aesthetic that aligns the house with its forested context. Expansive glass panels are strategically positioned to maximize natural light and frame picturesque views of the lake and woods, enhancing the occupants' connection to their environment. Concrete foundations provide durability and stability, essential for the longevity of the structure.

An important aspect of the design is its spatial organization, which promotes fluidity and flexibility. The open floor plan allows for easy navigation between the living area and the workshop. Notably, movable walls within the workshop provide adaptability, enabling the space to be configured according to specific artistic needs or collaborative projects. This design choice underscores the architects' commitment to fostering creativity and ensuring that the space can evolve with its inhabitants' requirements.

Environmental sustainability is another cornerstone of the Painters' Lake House. Recognizing the ecological significance of the surrounding area, the design incorporates features such as bat shelters to support local wildlife. The architecture effectively harmonizes with the natural environment, ensuring that the building not only integrates with its surroundings but also contributes positively to the local ecosystem.

What sets the Painters' Lake House apart is its thoughtful balance between creative expression and practical functionality. The design embodies a deep understanding of the needs of artists, allowing them to thrive in an environment that nurtures both creativity and daily living. Enhanced by the use of local materials and sustainable practices, this project stands as a testament to how architecture can create spaces that are not only suitable for their inhabitants but also respectful of their surroundings and cultural context.

For those interested in understanding more about the Painters' Lake House, exploring its architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative architectural ideas will provide deeper insights into the functional and aesthetic qualities that define this unique project.
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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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