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Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Frames Creating Cultural Spaces in Latvian Countryside

Author:
Colin Ostman
Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Frames Creating Cultural Spaces in Latvian Countryside

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and local timber, the design harmonizes architectural storytelling with natural elements to create a cultural gathering space in the Latvian countryside.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural performance and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and offers unique spatial experiences.
04
Integrates mythological elements of Latvian culture into the architectural narrative.
05
Includes a reflective water feature that connects visitors to the surrounding landscape.

### Overview
Located in the Latvian countryside, the project draws upon local mythology to enhance the relationship between built form and natural landscape. It is designed to facilitate an experiential journey for visitors, engaging them with themes rooted in Latvian culture. The core intention is to create spaces that encourage exploration, reflection, and a deeper connection with both the environment and cultural heritage.

### Spatial Configuration
The layout thoughtfully aligns with the site's topography and integrates three significant components. The main residence, reminiscent of traditional barn architecture, utilizes locally sourced timber to foster a sense of warmth and familiarity. Water features play an essential role, serving both aesthetic and practical functions, while acting as a symbolic representation of the interaction between earth and sky. Supporting spaces, including an auditorium for storytelling and staff residences, promote communal engagement and cultural exchange. Pathways weave through diverse landscapes, guiding visitors from one zone to another and enhancing the narrative experience.

### Material Selection
The material palette is carefully curated to reflect sustainability and craftsmanship. Timber is prominently used for structural elements, emphasizing local sourcing and environmental responsibility. Concrete is utilized for its durability and also plays a role in artistic finishes within water-retaining structures. Glass elements, including windows and skylights, facilitate an abundance of natural light, thereby blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces. Natural stone is incorporated in specific areas, notably around bathing facilities, to enrich the sensory experience. This choice of materials underscores a commitment to ecological considerations while paying homage to local craftsmanship and cultural significance.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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