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Charred Wooden Shingles and Stone Walls Envelop a Tea Workshop Retreat in Latvia

Authors:
Rucha Valimbe, Yumian Zhou, Juliet Tremble
Charred Wooden Shingles and Stone Walls Envelop a Tea Workshop Retreat in Latvia

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wooden shingles and local stone, the retreat harmoniously merges sustainability with cultural heritage while providing an immersive space for tea production and guest experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates locally sourced stone walls to enhance thermal efficiency and reduce energy consumption.
02
Features a tea workshop designed for hands-on learning, integrating traditional practices with modern techniques.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance while adding aesthetic character.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure that allows for natural light and ventilation throughout the spaces.
05
Includes a greenhouse for cultivating local tea plants, promoting sustainability and educational opportunities.
The architectural project presented is the Tea Maker's Guest House, a reflective and functional space located in Latvia, designed not only as a residence but also as a dedicated workshop for tea production. This project embodies a philosophy of sustainability and cultural authenticity, integrating seamlessly with the surrounding landscape while offering visitors an immersive experience into the art of tea making.

The central concept of the Tea Maker’s Guest House revolves around fostering a connection between nature and local traditions. The design prioritizes sustainability through the use of locally sourced materials, which minimizes its ecological footprint and promotes environmental stewardship. By utilizing timber and stone, the structure resonates with its natural surroundings and historical context, further reinforcing the ethos of regional identity in architecture.

Functionally, the guest house accommodates both private and public spaces, creating a balanced environment for both guests and tea enthusiasts. The layout is thoughtfully devised to encourage movement and interaction, with an open-plan design that facilitates communal activities while ensuring that areas designated for private use remain secluded. Key components of the design include the tea making workshop, which serves as the heart of the building, allowing guests to engage directly with the tea production process. This interaction not only enhances their understanding of local tea culture but also transforms the house into a living laboratory where tradition and craft coexist.

In addition to the workshop, the design incorporates a kitchen and service areas that are efficiently situated to optimize workflows. The connectivity of these spaces minimizes the energy expended in transportation and enhances the guest experience. Furthermore, outdoor spaces are integral to the project, providing gardens designed for social gatherings and relaxation while functioning as productive areas for tea cultivation. This connection with the outdoors is further emphasized by the inclusion of a greenhouse, which supports the cultivation of various tea plants and enriches educational opportunities for visitors.

A distinctive feature of the tea making workshop lies in its innovative ventilation strategies. The use of operable glazing allows natural air circulation, ensuring comfort throughout the space and promoting an energy-efficient environment. By combining passive solar gain through large expanses of glass with the thermal mass properties of stone, the design achieves a harmonious balance between indoor climate control and natural light.

Throughout the architectural design, attention to detail is paramount. The integration of traditional stone walls with modern timber elements creates a unique aesthetic that is both respectful of the past and forward-thinking. The choice of materials not only enhances the building's alignment with its environment but also contributes to its durability and functionality. This approach demonstrates a commitment to quality and a deep understanding of local building practices.

In summary, the Tea Maker’s Guest House represents a holistic approach to architecture, where every element serves a purpose, and every design decision is made with care for the environment and cultural heritage. The thoughtful integration of the workshop and residential areas, combined with a commitment to sustainable practices and local materials, establishes this project as a model for future developments in similar contexts. For those interested in exploring the architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas that define this project, I encourage a closer examination of the detailed presentation available. There is much to discover in the nuances of this engaging architectural endeavor.
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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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