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Charred Wooden Shingles and Reclaimed Timber Roam Within a Coastal Community Retreat

Author:
Marudina Julia
Charred Wooden Shingles and Reclaimed Timber Roam Within a Coastal Community Retreat

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and reclaimed timber, the design seamlessly merges into the coastal landscape, offering a community retreat that emphasizes sustainability and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project incorporates charred wooden shingles as a fire-resistant material, enhancing safety and durability.
02
Reclaimed timber sourced from local structures reduces waste while preserving cultural heritage.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes structural strength while providing unique aesthetic appeal.
04
Natural light is maximized through strategically placed openings, enhancing the interior ambiance.
05
Landscaping includes native plants to promote ecological sustainability and minimal maintenance.
The Caramel Shore Traveller Rooms project is an innovative architectural endeavor situated along the picturesque Latvian coastline. This design embodies a thoughtful integration of local architectural traditions and contemporary sustainable practices, catering specifically to the needs of both travelers and the local community. The project serves multiple functions, providing a tranquil refuge for visitors while simultaneously fostering connections with the natural landscape and the surrounding cultural heritage.

At its core, the Caramel Shore Traveller Rooms represents a merging of comfort and community, inviting guests to engage with the Latvian environment and culture. It is designed not only as individual accommodations but as a gathering space that emphasizes shared experiences among visitors. The project's unique approach to layout facilitates interaction and social cohesion through communal spaces while also offering the privacy necessary for rest and rejuvenation.

Distinctive architectural elements characterize this project. The design adopts a series of semi-open pavilions, creating an intimate relationship with the environment. This form allows natural light and air to flow through the spaces, enhancing the overall experience. The slanted roofs, reminiscent of traditional Latvian homes, are not merely aesthetic choices; they serve practical functions by allowing for effective rainwater runoff and thermal efficiency. The thoughtful placement of these structures leverages the surrounding beauty, ensuring that each room frames specific views of the landscape.

Materiality plays a crucial role in articulating the project's vision. The Caramel Shore Traveller Rooms utilize locally sourced wood, natural stone, and sustainable materials like straw or bamboo for roofing, thereby reflecting the local identity. This approach not only minimizes the carbon footprint but also promotes the use of materials that resonate with the area's ecological context. Reclaimed and recycled materials add both character and authenticity to the design, celebrating Latvia’s architectural legacy while paving the way for future developments.

The interior spaces of each traveller room are crafted to encourage relaxation and interaction. Open, flowing layouts enable flexibility in how the space can be used, accommodating both solitary reflection and group activities. The intentional use of natural light and earthy tones creates a comfortable atmosphere, promoting well-being and connection to nature. Common facilities such as saunas and shared gathering areas reinforce the communal ethos of the project, creating an environment where visitors can connect with one another and with the local customs.

The Caramel Shore Traveller Rooms project exemplifies a design philosophy that prioritizes not only the physical form but also the emotional and social experiences of its users. By focusing on community, sustainability, and a deep respect for local traditions, this project integrates seamlessly into its environment while serving contemporary needs.

For those interested in exploring this architectural endeavor further, it is worthwhile to review the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas to gain a comprehensive understanding of how the various elements come together to create a distinctive and welcoming space. This project stands as a testament to the potential of architecture to harmoniously blend with nature and culture, inviting a deeper connection to the Latvian landscape and its rich heritage.
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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
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