Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Charred Wooden Shingles And Red-White Cladding Define A Coastal Retreat

Author:
David Hgrant
Charred Wooden Shingles And Red-White Cladding Define A Coastal Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and vibrant red-white cladding, the beach cabin in Jurmala offers a sustainable retreat that harmonizes with its coastal setting while providing essential spaces for relaxation and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with a gabled roof for enhanced natural ventilation.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Incorporates large glazing for unobstructed beach views and daylight.
04
Constructed using cross-laminated timber panels for sustainable efficiency.
05
Features a vibrant red-white color scheme reflecting local cultural identity.

The architectural project under analysis is a beach cabin located in Jurmala, Latvia. This design embodies a modern interpretation of traditional beach structures while integrating functional and sustainable features. The project focuses on adaptability to the surrounding environment, facilitating interaction between indoor and outdoor spaces, and reflecting the cultural identity of the locale through its color scheme and material selection.

The beach cabin is designed primarily as a versatile retreat for visitors, offering spaces for relaxation, changing, and social gatherings. Its elevated structure is intended to protect against the coastal elements, while large glazing provides vistas of the beach and allows ample natural light into the interior. The building's form, with a gabled roof and vertical wooden cladding, pays homage to local architectural traditions, positioning it comfortably within its context.

Cultural Context and Material Usage

The selection of materials is crucial to the project's identity. The cabin utilizes timber for both the exterior and interior, fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere. The use of composite materials reinforces durability and resilience against harsh coastal weather. Large glass elements are strategically placed to merge the internal space seamlessly with the external environment, promoting an open and airy feel.

The color palette, prominently featuring red and white, reflects the colors of the Latvian flag, establishing a connection to national heritage. This conscious choice serves to create a sense of place and identity, distinguishing the cabin from typical beach constructions. Such integration of cultural symbolism enhances the architectural narrative and engages visitors on a deeper level.

Functional Design and Unique Approaches

The layout of the beach cabin emphasizes an open plan conducive to social interaction while providing designated areas for specific functions. Incorporating a flexible interior design allows the space to adapt to various needs, catering to individuals and groups alike. Integrated storage solutions, such as wooden shelves, streamline organization and maintain a clutter-free environment.

Unique design approaches include the project's sustainability strategies, prioritizing environmentally friendly practices. The use of prefabricated elements minimizes on-site construction impact and supports efficient assembly. This method enhances the project’s practicality, making it easier to relocate or modify in response to changing requirements.

Overall, the design of the beach cabin in Jurmala stands out for its commitment to cultural resonance, sustainability, and adaptability. These aspects invite further exploration of the architectural dimensions of the project. Readers interested in the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas are encouraged to delve deeper into the project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its architectural significance.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

`

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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