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Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Straw Bale Construction in a Community-Focused Cultural Center

Authors:
Weronika Dardzińska, Jakub Biernacki, Michalina Dębska, Kaja Kirilenko
Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Straw Bale Construction in a Community-Focused Cultural Center

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and eco-friendly straw bale construction, the design creates a seamless blend of tradition and sustainability, serving as a cultural center dedicated to the rich heritage of horses in the Baltic region.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of straw bale construction enhances thermal performance while honoring traditional building techniques.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide both durability and an aesthetic that blends with the natural landscape.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are employed for their structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
The bent A-frame design maximizes interior height and creates a distinctive architectural silhouette.
05
Workshop spaces are designed to promote artisan crafts, fostering community engagement and skill sharing.
The "On The Way: Museum of the Horse" represents a thoughtful architectural project positioned in the Vala region of Latvia. This museum aims to honor and explore the profound cultural and historical connections between horses and the Baltic community. It serves not just as a collection of exhibits but as an interactive space, where visitors can engage with narratives that have defined the region's relationship with these animals throughout history.

The museum functions as an educational hub, demonstrating the significance of horses in agriculture, transportation, and daily life in the Baltic culture. It seeks to revive and maintain the traditional practices associated with these animals, showcasing craftsmanship and artisanal skills through workshops and exhibitions. The design fosters an intimate connection to the natural landscape, inviting visitors to experience both the immediate environment and the broader stories that the horse symbolizes.

Each component of the project has been meticulously planned to facilitate an immersive experience. The main exhibition hall is strategically designed to allow natural light to filter through extensive glass panels, creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages exploration. This openness is a vital aspect of the project, as it blurs the lines between the exhibits and the surrounding landscape, highlighting the relationship between nature and culture. Adjacent to the exhibition space, workshop areas provide dynamic environments where artisans can demonstrate traditional techniques, further enriching the educational value of the museum.

The architecture of the museum incorporates a harmonious blend of modern construction techniques and local materials. Key elements, including wooden structures, straw walls, and earth-based materials, reflect the traditions of Latvian building practices while prioritizing sustainability. This careful selection promotes thermal efficiency and ensures that the museum's environmental footprint remains minimal. The natural materials used in the construction not only blend with the landscape but also create a warm and inviting ambiance, inviting visitors to linger and engage more deeply with the space.

A unique aspect of the design is its attention to creating community-oriented spaces. These areas are central to the project's mission of fostering interaction and shared experiences. By integrating features such as communal gathering spots and engagement zones, the museum emphasizes a sense of belonging and continuity, enabling visitors not just to observe but to participate actively in cultural discussions. This focus encourages the sharing of personal stories and local knowledge, reinforcing the museum's role as a cultural hub.

The layout is intentionally structured to guide visitors through a sequential journey that reflects the thematic narrative of the museum. Starting from natural entry points, pathways lead visitors through various zones, each offering distinct experiences related to the themes of heritage, craftsmanship, and environmental awareness. The entire design encourages a pedagogical approach, allowing individuals to learn about history interactively and meaningfully.

Exploring the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs reveals the depth of thought put into each aspect of the museum. Special attention is given to the integration of landscape elements, ensuring that every outdoor space complements the overall design. The project not only emphasizes physical structures but also addresses the importance of the surrounding environment in shaping cultural identity.

This project embraces a collection of architectural ideas that elevate it beyond a traditional museum experience. The design's focus on sustainability, community engagement, and educational outreach reflects broader trends within contemporary architecture, which prioritize environmental stewardship and social responsibility. As the museum aims to reintroduce the horse's significance in the cultural heritage narrative of Latvia, it presents a valuable opportunity for learning and reflection.

Engaging with this architectural project provides insights into how built environments can reflect and shape cultural values. For those interested in a deeper understanding of the project, including its architectural plans and sections, an exploration of the design elements will reveal how this facility seamlessly integrates functionality with a commitment to honoring local traditions. The opportunities for educational engagement, community interaction, and environmental consciousness make the "On The Way: Museum of the Horse" a commendable addition to the architectural landscape of Latvia.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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