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Circular Cabins With Sustainable Wood and Copper Roofing Integrated Into Natural Landscapes

Authors:
Reimi Hayakawa, Naoto Takamura, Nayuta Kudou
Circular Cabins With Sustainable Wood and Copper Roofing Integrated Into Natural Landscapes

Project in-detail

Constructed with circular forms and sustainable wood, these cabins seamlessly blend with the Latvian landscape to provide spaces for reading and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Each cabin's circular design maximizes natural light and provides panoramic views of the landscape.
02
Sustainable wood construction includes cross-laminated timber panels, ensuring durability and eco-friendliness.
03
Charred wooden shingles create a weather-resistant exterior while integrating aesthetic harmony with nature.
04
The bent A-frame structure enhances stability while allowing for versatile interior configurations.
05
The project promotes community interaction by serving as both lodging and a communal reading space.
The "Amber Rings" project is an architectural design that combines natural landscapes with functionality to create unique lodging and community spaces. Located in Latvia, this project features a series of circular cabins that serve as both accommodations for travelers and libraries that promote reading and cultural exchange. The design is rooted in the concept of connecting people to nature and storytelling, drawing on the rich literary and ecological heritage of the region.

The circular form of each cabin is a central design feature, allowing for an organic integration with the surrounding environment. The architecture utilizes large windows that provide unobstructed views of the natural foliage, enhancing the user experience by creating a visual connection with the outdoors. Each cabin is designed to cater to various seasonal activities, allowing for a diverse range of uses throughout the year.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the distinguishing aspects of the "Amber Rings" project is its emphasis on community interaction. Each cabin is not merely a private space but a point for social engagement, where travelers can share books and experiences. This approach fosters a sense of community among visitors and locals, establishing the cabins as gathering places rather than just accommodations.

The materiality of the project also sets it apart. The use of sustainable materials—wood for structure, glass for transparency, and copper for roofing—aligns with current architectural practices that prioritize environmental stewardship. The selection of these materials ensures that the project integrates seamlessly into the local landscape while providing durability and functionality.

Architectural Details

The architectural plans for the "Amber Rings" project include specific elements designed for both comfort and practicality. The layout of each cabin maximizes the use of space, with flexible interiors that can accommodate various activities, from reading and writing to social gatherings. The interior design focuses on natural light and open spaces, reinforcing the connection to the environment.

Architectural sections illustrate how the project adapts to seasonal changes, incorporating features that allow for use throughout the year. In warmer months, the cabins can be opened to the surrounding landscape, promoting outdoor interaction, while during colder months, the design ensures adequate insulation and warmth.

The "Amber Rings" project encapsulates a thoughtful approach to architecture that values human experience and cultural richness. For those interested in exploring the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas in greater detail, visiting the project presentation will provide a comprehensive understanding of this innovative project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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