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Charred Wooden Shingles and Thermal Materials Create a Harmonious Community Retreat

Authors:
Daniel Martínez Valle, Gabriela Alejandra Guerrero Belmont, Juan Negrete Muñoz, Julio Cesar Fuentes Morales
Charred Wooden Shingles and Thermal Materials Create a Harmonious Community Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and thermal materials to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, the design creates a sustainable community hub that fosters connectivity and comfort.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles, enhancing both aesthetics and durability.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural support while promoting energy efficiency.
03
A bent A-frame structure optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout the interior.
04
Landscaping features native flora that support local biodiversity and ecological balance.
05
Community spaces are strategically placed to encourage social interaction among residents.
The project, named "Latvian Paradise," is an architectural design endeavor situated in the serene municipality of Layvia, Latvia. This design harmonizes the necessity for residential comfort with a deep appreciation for the surrounding natural environment. The project represents an effort to create a sustainable living space that caters to both individual and community needs. It encapsulates the essence of modern Latvian architecture while respecting traditional values rooted in environmental harmony.

At its core, the "Latvian Paradise" project functions as a multifaceted living space that includes both private and communal areas. The structure comprises multiple levels—namely a basement, ground floor, first floor, and second floor—arranged to facilitate a seamless flow of movement throughout the building. Key elements such as the kitchen, lounge, and restrooms are strategically placed on the ground floor to provide easy access for residents and visitors alike. This approach ensures that the most frequently used spaces are readily accessible and functional.

One of the standout features of this project is its thoughtful integration of various zones that cater to different needs and social interactions. The first floor emphasizes privacy with bedrooms and leisure spaces that encourage relaxation, while also incorporating areas for personal enrichment, such as a library. This balance allows for individual retreat while maintaining connectivity with family and neighbors. Furthermore, the design includes terraces throughout the building, encouraging residents to engage with the surrounding landscape and enjoy the natural beauty that defines this region.

The architectural design takes great care in selecting materials that are both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally responsible. The use of thermal materials is prominent, enhancing energy efficiency throughout the building, which is vital given the local climate, where temperatures can range significantly throughout the year. A combination of stone and wood features prominently in the design, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere while ensuring durability and structural integrity. The generous application of glass in the facades and window designs not only maximizes natural light but also fosters a strong visual connection to the outdoors. This attention to materiality reflects a commitment to complementing the landscapes that surround the building rather than overpowering them.

In terms of unique design approaches, the "Latvian Paradise" project is notable for its emphasis on community engagement. The layout is particularly attuned to fostering interaction among residents. Incorporating communal spaces such as event halls and lounges within the design encourages social gatherings and promotes a sense of belonging, crucial in any residential project. This intentional design choice resonates with the values of the local community, creating a space where inhabitants can thrive collectively while also enjoying their personal sanctuary.

Another distinctive aspect of the project is its landscaping, which showcases locally sourced flora to enhance the ecological narrative. Among the selected plants, notable species include Abies alba (Silver Fir), Betula pendula (Silver Birch), and Larix decidua (European Larch). These choices not only improve the aesthetic quality of the setting but also support local biodiversity, exemplifying a holistic understanding of architecture that goes beyond mere building.

This architectural endeavor successfully merges the requirements of modern living with sustainable practices, illustrating how contemporary design can coexist with nature. By addressing both the immediate functional necessities and the broader ecological context, "Latvian Paradise" serves as a benchmark for future architectural projects aspiring to achieve similar standards of integration and harmony.

For visitors interested in delving deeper into the nuances of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and various design elements, we encourage exploration of the detailed presentation available. Engaging with the intricacies of this design offers an enriching perspective on the thoughtful architecture behind "Latvian Paradise."
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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