Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create a Retreat for Artistic Collaboration

Authors:
Brandon Haarer, Austin Pelfrey
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create a Retreat for Artistic Collaboration

Project in-detail

With charred wooden shingles and local stone, the design fosters a seamless blend of natural elements and modern functionality, creating an inspiring environment for artistic collaboration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural strength and sustainability Features a bent A-frame design that adds visual interest while maximizing interior space Strategically positioned windows frame views of the surrounding landscape, enhancing natural light Integrates communal and individual areas to foster artistic collaboration and interaction.
The Artist Village project exemplifies a thoughtful integration of architecture and nature, presenting a design that is both functional and aesthetically connected to its surroundings in Latvia. This architectural initiative aims to provide a nurturing environment for artists while promoting a sense of community. The project represents a convergence of creativity, collaboration, and respect for the natural landscape, effectively serving as both a residence and a workspace for artistic endeavors.

Occupying a carefully selected site that harmonizes with the existing topography, The Artist Village showcases a design approach that prioritizes sustainability and the well-being of its inhabitants. The architectural form reflects a modern interpretation of traditional rural buildings, with gabled roofs and a focus on local materials. This connection to the vernacular roots of the region is significant, as it fosters a sense of place and continuity within the community.

The project consists of various interconnected buildings that accommodate studios, living spaces, and communal areas, all designed with open floor plans to encourage interaction among residents. This layout not only promotes a collaborative spirit but also allows for a seamless flow of daily activities. The integration of large windows throughout the structures facilitates abundant natural light and stunning views of the surrounding landscape, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces.

The material choices are deliberate, emphasizing sustainability and local culture. Wood plays a prominent role in the construction, offering warmth and a connection to nature. Complemented by stone elements, the buildings are designed to withstand the test of time while minimizing energy consumption. This careful selection of materials aligns with the project’s ethos of creating an environment that supports artistic creativity while prioritizing ecological responsibility.

Unique design features include strategic overhangs and recesses that enhance architectural expression while simultaneously providing shade and reducing heat loss. These details highlight the project’s commitment to passive energy strategies, demonstrating how thoughtful design can lead to improved energy efficiency. The relationship between the buildings and their natural surroundings is further emphasized through landscaping that preserves local flora and fauna, creating a serene atmosphere conducive to artistic reflection.

The Artist Village stands out for its focus on fostering artistic growth within a supportive community framework. By blending residential and studio spaces with communal areas, the design encourages collaboration among artists from various disciplines. The inclusion of shared facilities, such as galleries and exhibition spaces, reinforces the project’s commitment to making art accessible to both residents and visitors. This intertwining of artistic practice and community engagement underscores the potential for architecture to enhance cultural dialogue.

Overall, The Artist Village serves as a model of how architecture can engage with the environment while addressing the needs of its inhabitants. The design successfully merges functionality with a deep appreciation for its context, creating an inspiring setting that nurtures creativity. It seeks to redefine the artist's workspace, inviting exploration and interaction, making it a noteworthy project within contemporary architectural discourse.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural concepts and design strategies employed in The Artist Village, readers are encouraged to explore its architectural plans, sections, and overall architectural design. Engaging with these elements will provide valuable insights into how this project embodies a holistic approach to creativity and community in architecture.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy