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Courtyard Retreat Framed by Round Roof and Timber Harmony

Author:
Janneke Revenboer
Courtyard Retreat Framed by Round Roof and Timber Harmony
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Defined by its round roof and thoughtful use of timber, the design creates a harmonious connection between interior spaces and the surrounding Latvian landscape, serving as both a residence and a dedicated painter's workshop.
5 key facts about this project
01
Defined by a round roof, the design creates an open central courtyard that encourages community interaction.
02
Timber construction utilizes local resources, emphasizing sustainability and minimizing environmental impact.
03
Movable wooden panels allow for flexible space configurations in the painter's workshop.
04
Monumental trees on-site are preserved, blending the structure with the natural landscape.
05
Large windows frame panoramic views, enhancing both natural light and the connection to nature.

The project is located in Latvia, surrounded by a rich and diverse natural environment. It serves the dual purpose of providing a residence as well as a workshop for painters. The design concept focuses on harmony with nature, encouraging appreciation for the changing landscapes outside. The overall aim is to create spaces that are open, light-filled, and functional, fostering a connection between indoor living and the outdoor world.

Design Philosophy
-
The design philosophy is rooted in drawing inspiration from nature. Spaces are designed to facilitate interaction with the outdoor elements, with large windows thoughtfully positioned to capture views of trees, lakes, and skies. This approach connects occupants to their environment, enhancing daily experiences and promoting mindfulness of the natural surroundings.

Sustainability and Materiality
-
Sustainability is a central theme, with timber chosen as the primary material because of its renewability and insulating qualities. Using wood reduces environmental impact while supporting local resources. The design carefully preserves existing monumental trees on the site, only removing those that obstruct vital views. This strategy reflects a conscious effort to respect the ecological balance while fulfilling the project's functional needs.

Spatial Organization
-
The layout is open and interconnected, enhancing the flow between different functional areas. The arrangement maximizes natural light and unobstructed views, which improves the quality of life for residents. Movable wooden panels provide flexibility, allowing spaces to adapt according to residents' needs. This thoughtful design promotes both community interaction and personal privacy, balancing social and individual living experiences.

Innovative Structural Elements
-
A round roof characterizes the architecture, serving both practical and visual purposes. It creates an inviting courtyard designed for shelter and encourages social interaction among residents. The roof's orientation has been considered to maximize the efficiency of solar panels, integrating renewable energy solutions into the design. This alignment highlights the connection between the structure and its natural setting, underscoring the project’s commitment to sustainability.


This design integrates living and artistic spaces in a way that encourages creativity and reflection. Large windows frame beautiful views, while the layout supports both shared experiences and individual quiet moments. The result is a carefully considered environment that honors the unique characteristics of the Latvian landscape.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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