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Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Timber Create Harmonious Living in Rural Latvia

Authors:
Aiva Dorbe, Krista Kušķe, Anete Soldāne, Lauma Kalnina
Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Timber Create Harmonious Living in Rural Latvia
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Charred wooden shingles envelop sustainably sourced timber structures, creating a functional living environment that seamlessly integrates with the rural Latvian landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles are utilized for exterior cladding, enhancing durability and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are employed for structural integrity while promoting sustainability.
03
The design features a bent A-frame structure that maximizes interior space while responding to local climate.
04
Strategically placed terraces foster outdoor connectivity and encourage social interaction among residents.
05
Local landscaping incorporates native flora to minimize ecological disruption and enhance natural aesthetics.

### Overview

Located in a rural area of Latvia, the Latvian Grey project integrates traditional farmstead aesthetics with modern sustainable design. The intent is to create an architectural expression that fosters a harmonious relationship between the built environment and the surrounding landscape, thereby reflecting both cultural heritage and contemporary living practices.

### Architectural Form and Materiality

The project features gabled structures that evoke the traditional silhouette of Latvian farmsteads while addressing climatic needs. Steeply pitched roofs are designed to efficiently shed snow and rain, and overhanging eaves provide protection from direct sunlight in the summer months. Constructed from sustainably sourced timber, the buildings incorporate dark wooden cladding that achieves a weathered appearance, with significant use of naturally aged wood to enhance authenticity. Large windows facilitate visual connections to the landscape, allowing abundant natural light while prioritizing privacy. Metal components in the roofing and detailing add durability and modernity to the overall design.

### Spatial Layout and Sustainability

The interior layout prioritizes adaptability, offering both communal spaces and private retreats through strategically designed two-level configurations. Elements such as multifunctional furniture maximize usability, while outdoor terraces extend living spaces into the natural environment. Each building is elevated on pilings to optimize views and reduce ecological impact. The project adheres to eco-friendly construction practices and incorporates innovative thermal insulation and ventilation strategies to enhance energy efficiency. Buildings are oriented to optimize passive solar gain, ensuring comfort across seasonal variations through features designed to manage temperature and airflow.

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

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The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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