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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Unite in a Sustainable Community Hub

Authors:
Andy tian-yue Hu, Yiran Zhao
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Unite in a Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

A harmonious blend of charred wooden shingles and natural stone creates an inviting community hub that celebrates equestrian culture and fosters creativity through its thoughtfully designed spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and provide a unique aesthetic.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for increased structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for expansive interior spaces while maintaining a strong visual presence.
04
Features dedicated artist studios that promote collaboration and creativity within the community.
05
Integrates natural stone to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape and climate.
The project "Spout" represents an eloquent blend of architecture, functionality, and a deep appreciation for nature, situated in the serene landscape of Latvia. This architectural design aims to foster a connection between its occupants and the surrounding environment, creating an immersive experience that encourages exploration and engagement with the natural world. The project is not just an edifice but a narrative, one that intertwines the themes of equestrian culture and the seasonal beauty of the Latvian countryside.

At its core, "Spout" serves multiple purposes. It functions as a museum specifically dedicated to the horse, reflecting its significance in local culture, while also accommodating artist studios, communal gathering spaces, and a library. This multifaceted approach allows the project to cater to various activities, fostering a sense of community and encouraging creativity among visitors and inhabitants alike. The architectural design emphasizes human interaction with the environment, prioritizing flooded natural light, open spaces, and seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor areas.

The spatial arrangement of "Spout" is thoughtfully devised, with distinct zones that guide users through different experiences. Upon entering, one is greeted by a reception area that sets a warm and inviting tone. This space leads into the museum of the horse, where exhibits elucidate the cultural and historical context of equestrianism. Adjacent to this is the artist studios, designed to inspire creative work and collaboration, promoting artistic endeavors in harmony with the broader narrative of the museum.

The communal dining and living room serves as a greenhouse-like gathering space, designed to encourage interaction. Here, occupants can enjoy meals or engage in conversation with views of the natural landscape. The library offers a quiet respite, providing a space for reflection and knowledge acquisition, reinforcing the project's overarching themes of solitude and engagement with the environment.

Materiality plays a vital role in the project's identity. The careful selection of materials such as natural wood, glass, and stone is intentional, enhancing the connection to the site's natural context. Wood, used in both structural elements and flooring, infuses warmth, while expanses of glass create transparency, inviting the landscape inside and forging a continuous bond with the outdoors. Natural stone adds stability and balance to the design, grounding it within its environment. The use of soft, earthy tones in paint and plaster creates a calming backdrop, fostering a sense of serenity throughout the spaces.

In terms of unique design approaches, "Spout" ingeniously incorporates the concept of storytelling into its architecture. Every element serves a purpose in advancing the narrative and creating an emotional connection between the structure and its users. The design avoids strict compartmentalization, instead embracing open floor plans that facilitate movement and interaction. This fluidity in layout aligns with the project's goal to evoke a sense of exploration and discovery, encouraging individuals to engage fully with the space.

The architectural profiles evoke a castle-like form, a homage to historical structures while simultaneously forging a contemporary identity. This blend of old and new captures the essence of continuity in cultural heritage, reflecting both past and present values within the architecture. Additionally, the project contemplates environmental sustainability by thoughtfully integrating the building with its surroundings, promoting an ecological awareness that extends beyond its walls.

The project invites audiences to reflect on the symbiotic relationship between architecture and nature, asserting that buildings can and should foster connections to the environment. As a living entity within the Latvian landscape, "Spout" exemplifies how architecture can be both artistic and practical, representing a significant contribution to the cultural dialogue surrounding community, nature, and the arts.

For those interested in further exploring the architectural plans, sections, and design concepts that underpin the project, a more in-depth examination of "Spout" awaits. Delve into the specifics of this compelling architectural endeavor to grasp the full essence of its ideas and the careful thought that has shaped its realization.
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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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