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Charred Wooden Shingles Embracing Natural Landscapes in a Studio Retreat

Authors:
Minh Nguyen, Elissa Samaha, Aya Bahr, Sara Perez
Charred Wooden Shingles Embracing Natural Landscapes in a Studio Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles to blend seamlessly with its forested surroundings, the retreat offers artists a focused environment for creativity while fostering a deep connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic integration with the forest environment.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and insulation properties.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes both interior space and exterior silhouette.
04
Includes outdoor terraces that encourage interaction with the surrounding landscape.
05
Designed to promote artistic creativity through flexible studio spaces and communal areas.

The project "Merging Nature" focuses on the integration of architectural design with the natural landscape of Southeast Latvia. This architectural endeavor emphasizes a strong relationship between the built environment and its surrounding ecosystems, seeking to foster creativity and artistic expression in a tranquil setting. The design's primary function is to serve as a retreat for artists, enabling them to work in a space that promotes inspiration and connection with nature.

The project layout comprises a series of interconnected structures that accommodate various activities, including private studios, communal workshops, and shared living spaces. The careful arrangement of these spaces facilitates both collaboration and solitude, catering to the diverse needs of artists. The architecture takes advantage of the site's natural attributes, including woodlands and the adjacent Cermostes Lake, creating an environment where creativity can thrive.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the defining characteristics of this project is the thoughtful selection and application of materials. The use of timber wood for structural components lends the design an organic quality that resonates with the surrounding trees. Concrete is incorporated for its structural integrity, while glass panels are strategically placed to enhance transparency and connect interior spaces to the landscape. This combination of materials effectively showcases local building traditions while adhering to modern architectural standards.

The project also prioritizes sustainable practices. The integration of straw roofing reflects local building techniques and reduces environmental impact. In addition, the design incorporates outdoor terraces that expand usable space and provide unobstructed views of the lake, fostering a closer relationship between the occupants and their environment.

Architectural Features and Spatial Dynamics

Merging Nature is characterized by open and flexible layouts that encourage movement and interaction within the spaces. The design facilitates a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors, with interior planting helping to reinforce the connection to nature. The strategic placement of terraces and large windows fosters a sense of openness while ensuring privacy within the living quarters.

Complementary elements such as communal kitchens and gathering areas promote a sense of community among users, creating opportunities for collaboration and exchange of ideas. The overall design reflects a commitment to enhancing the atmospheric quality of the spaces, emphasizing simplicity and functionality while maintaining a strong visual connection to the surrounding environment.

For further insights into this architectural project, review the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs presented throughout the project documentation. The exploration of these elements offers a deeper understanding of the innovative ideas and design principles that underpin this unique architectural approach.

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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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