Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Curvilinear Design Featuring Reed Canopy and Laminated Wood for Community Engagement

Authors:
Arseny Lebedev, Daria Zhiguleva, Reinis Rudzite
Curvilinear Design Featuring Reed Canopy and Laminated Wood for Community Engagement

Project in-detail

The integration of a reed canopy with laminated wood structures creates a seamless connection between nature and community functions, providing versatile spaces for artistic collaboration amidst a rich cultural heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building integrates a reed canopy that serves both aesthetic and functional purposes.
02
It features curvilinear rooflines that reflect the surrounding landscape.
03
Laminated wood construction enhances structural integrity while promoting sustainability.
04
Art studios are designed with flexible configurations to accommodate various creative activities.
05
The project incorporates passive energy solutions to optimize environmental efficiency.

The OMULI project reinterprets traditional reed architecture through modern design principles, situated in Latvia's scenic landscape. This architectural endeavor focuses on creating a multifaceted space that accommodates living, artistic activities, and community engagement. The project emphasizes sustainable practices and materials while integrating local culture into its design.

The building features a dynamic form accentuated by curvilinear rooflines, which mimic the natural landscape. This design approach not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also invites an exploration of space through its organic shapes. The use of a 'reed canopy' serves as a significant structural element, reflecting historical architectural practices while providing shade and shelter for public activities. The layout incorporates communal areas, transforming the building into a vibrant cultural hub.

Integration of Local Materials
A critical aspect of the OMULI project is its commitment to utilizing locally sourced materials. Laminated wood serves as the primary structural component, offering strength while aligning with sustainable practices. The use of reeds is central to the design, utilized not only for their historical significance but also for their insulating properties and eco-friendly characteristics. Plank facades provide texture and rhythm to the exterior surface, while reconstructed brick is incorporated to preserve architectural heritage. Large panes of glass enhance natural light flow and strengthen the connection between interior spaces and the surrounding environment.

Flexible Space Design
The interior layout is organized to facilitate a variety of functions, catering to both private living and public engagement. The inclusion of workshops and artists' studios promotes collaboration and creativity, allowing various forms of artistic expression to flourish. Strategic placement of communal spaces, such as performance areas and an outdoor café, encourages interaction among users and fosters a sense of community. The architectural design also incorporates passive energy solutions, ensuring efficient climate management within the building.

This project exemplifies a thoughtful integration of historical context and modern architectural strategies. It represents a forward-thinking approach to architecture that values local culture and environmental stewardship. For those interested in a deeper understanding of the OMULI project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and various design elements will provide further insight into its unique architectural ideas and concepts.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy