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Charred Wooden Shingles Complimenting Natural Light In A Sustainable Dual-Zone Retreat

Authors:
Steve Bryson, Emeline Gaujac, Lindsay Bach, Eliane Brogle
Charred Wooden Shingles Complimenting Natural Light In A Sustainable Dual-Zone Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and extensive glass facades, this dual-zone retreat integrates sustainable practices with natural light, offering spaces for reflection and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates expansive glass facades to enhance natural light and connect with the landscape.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
04
Implements biofiltration systems for effective stormwater management within the site.
05
Integrates spaces for communal activities alongside private meditation areas to foster community engagement.

### Overview

Located in the diverse landscapes of Latvia, the project aims to create a synthesis of modern living and sustainability across two distinct zones divided by a river: the "Relax" Land and the "Reawaken" Land. The design emphasizes circularity in both layout and experience, encouraging a meditative journey for residents and visitors. The reflective river acts as a natural divider while enhancing the tranquility of the environment and fostering a connection with nature.

### Spatial Arrangement

The project features a carefully curated spatial organization that includes a range of functional areas, each integrated into the surrounding landscape. Central to this composition is the main house, offering communal spaces for dining, yoga, and lounging. Surrounding this are sauna and meditation pods, promoting both social engagement and private reflection. Guest dwellings, strategically placed throughout the property, prioritize privacy while maintaining a connection to the natural surroundings. Circulation paths and bridges are designed not only for practical movement but also to symbolize individual journeys through spaces of reflection. Extensive landscaping incorporates biodiverse gardens and a biofiltration swale, supporting environmental management.

### Material Selection

Material choices reflect a commitment to both aesthetic and sustainable principles. Brick provides structural stability and warmth in the main house, harmonizing with the outdoor environment. Instances of glass maximize natural light and facilitate visual continuity between indoor and outdoor spaces. Wood is extensively utilized throughout the guest dwellings, offering a warm interior atmosphere that resonates with rustic charm. Features such as green roofs are incorporated to enhance insulation and biodiversity, while the use of corrugated metal for roofing ensures durability and modernity. Together, these materials support the project's overarching sustainability philosophy.

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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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