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Charred Wooden Shingles and Timberframe Design Enhancing Forest Integration for Community Lodging

Authors:
Jieun Kim, Ji won Song, Chang hyun Joo
Charred Wooden Shingles and Timberframe Design Enhancing Forest Integration for Community Lodging

Project in-detail

With its charred wooden shingles and timberframe construction that meld seamlessly into the forest landscape, this community lodging provides a tranquil retreat designed for immersive engagement with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels create efficient structural integrity while utilizing sustainable materials.
03
Paths are designed to mimic the natural flow of the Venta River, encouraging exploration of the forest.
04
A bent A-frame design enhances natural ventilation and captures abundant sunlight.
05
The project includes a traditional sauna, integrating local cultural practices into the lodging experience.
The architectural project "Walk Through the Wood" is situated in Skruanda, Latvia, seamlessly integrating with its natural environment while reflecting contemporary design principles. This project represents a harmonious blend of architecture and nature, creating a multifunctional space that offers lodging and communal facilities for visitors. The intention behind the design is to foster a deeper connection with the surrounding forest, enabling inhabitants to engage fully with the natural landscape.

The architectural design encompasses clusters of traveler quarters, thoughtfully arranged to ensure privacy while promoting community interaction. Each quarter is designed to provide comfort and relaxation, featuring large windows that frame views of the forest and allow for abundant natural light. The layout draws inspiration from the local context, echoing traditional Latvian architecture through the inclusion of gabled roofs. These roofs not only pay homage to the region's cultural heritage but also optimize functionality by facilitating ventilation and effective rainwater management.

Sustainable practices are at the core of the project's philosophy, with an emphasis on utilizing natural materials primarily consisting of timber. The choice of wood as the main structural element emphasizes warmth and connection to the natural environment, reinforcing the project’s ethos. Concrete is used minimally for foundational elements, ensuring that the design remains as eco-friendly as possible. By prioritizing materials that are both locally sourced and sustainable, the architecture encourages eco-consciousness while reducing the overall environmental impact.

The pathways within the project are reminiscent of the nearby Venta River's natural flow, guiding visitors through the site in a way that mimics the experience of walking through a forest. This design approach promotes exploration and interaction not only with the space itself but also with the surrounding wilderness, emphasizing the theme of unity with nature. The strategic placement of outdoor spaces encourages social gatherings and cultural activities, such as outdoor performances in a specially designed festival area. This aspect of the project enhances the sense of community, inviting a variety of uses that extend beyond individual accommodations.

Interior spaces are characterized by open-plan designs that allow for flexibility and adaptability. Living quarters enable social interaction while providing restful retreats for visitors after outdoor activities. The simple, natural finishes throughout the interiors reflect a minimalist aesthetic focused on functionality and comfort, drawing attention to the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Unique design approaches, such as the inclusion of a sauna—integral to Latvian culture—add a layer of authenticity to the experience. The project is not simply about providing lodging; it is structured to engage guests with the site’s cultural heritage while promoting relaxation and wellness. Each element of the architectural design has been carefully considered to create a holistic experience, emphasizing the importance of community, sustainability, and interaction with nature.

The "Walk Through the Wood" project exemplifies how architecture can serve as a bridge between the built environment and the natural world. By embracing local traditions and sustainable practices, it invites visitors to connect with their surroundings and each other. For those interested in learning more about this thoughtfully designed project, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed design ideas, exploring the project presentation is highly encouraged. This exploration offers deeper insights into the unique aspects of the design and its relevance to contemporary architectural practices.
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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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