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Charred Wooden Shingles and Passive Solar Design in a Multi-Function Rural Retreat

Author:
Phill Mashabane
Charred Wooden Shingles and Passive Solar Design in a Multi-Function Rural Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the retreat seamlessly combines sustainability and traditional craftsmanship, serving as a communal hub for tea production and cultural engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for efficient construction and structural integrity.
03
Designed with a bent A-frame to optimize space and solar exposure.
04
Features a workshop area designed specifically for traditional tea processing.
05
Integrates community spaces to facilitate cultural engagement and collaboration.
The Utili-Tea House, located in the Latgallia region of Latvia, represents a thoughtful integration of traditional architectural forms with contemporary functionality. Designed to serve as both a living and working space, this project embodies the cultural significance of tea production while addressing modern residential needs. The architectural design is structured around three distinct zones: communal areas for gathering, a functional workshop for tea processing, and private living quarters. This organization fosters both social interaction and productivity within a singular architectural framework.

Sustainable Architecture and Material Use

A notable aspect of the Utili-Tea House is its commitment to sustainability through material selection and design practices. The primary materials employed include timber, stone, and glass, each chosen for their durability and local significance. Timber serves as the primary structural component, providing warmth and a connection to local building traditions. Stone is utilized in the workshop area to enhance durability while offering a tactile connection to the earth. Extensive glass elements ensure an influx of natural light, facilitating a seamless transition between the interior spaces and the surrounding landscape.

The design approach prioritizes passive solar strategies, allowing for optimal energy efficiency and thermal comfort. The elongated structure is oriented strategically along cardinal directions to maximize sunlight exposure and reduce reliance on artificial heating. This careful planning illustrates a responsive architectural strategy that addresses both environmental considerations and user comfort.

Unique Community Engagement Features

The Utili-Tea House differentiates itself through its emphasis on community engagement and educational opportunities surrounding tea culture. The workshop is thoughtfully designed to host visitors, creating an interactive environment where individuals can learn about local tea-making traditions. This focus on education not only enriches the user experience but also promotes the preservation of cultural practices within the community.

The architectural design incorporates various communal spaces that encourage social interaction among residents and visitors alike. By blending work and leisure functions within a single structure, the project fosters a sense of community while supporting the craft of tea production. This unique characteristic serves as both a functional and cultural centerpiece, inviting exploration and connection.

Explore Architectural Details

To gain deeper insights into the Utili-Tea House, consider reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate its functional layout and aesthetic considerations. This project stands as a model for how architectural design can merge utility and culture, inviting further examination of its innovative design approaches.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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
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