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Curvilinear Huts Crafted From Glulam and Green Roofing Along the Baltic Sea

Author:
Stephen Buchanan-lacey
Curvilinear Huts Crafted From Glulam and Green Roofing Along the Baltic Sea

Project in-detail

Crafted entirely from glulam and accented with a sedum roof, the curvilinear huts harmonize with the Baltic coastline, offering guests a unique retreat that emphasizes sustainability and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes glulam construction for structural flexibility and enhanced aesthetics.
02
Features a sedum roof that promotes biodiversity and improves insulation.
03
Incorporates large, strategically placed windows to maximize natural light and views.
04
The serpentine layout enhances interaction among guests while maintaining privacy.
05
Designed with a focus on environmental sustainability and minimal ecological impact.
This architectural project presents a distinctive approach to accommodation, informed by a strong conceptual foundation centered on movement and the fluidity of water sports, specifically windsurfing. Situated in a location that embraces the natural beauty and physical dynamics of the Baltic Sea, the design captures the essence of outdoor exploration while providing comfortable living spaces for users. The project serves a multifunctional purpose, accommodating both individual relaxation and communal interactions among visitors.

The project consists of a series of thoughtfully arranged huts that exemplify a balance between privacy and social engagement. Each unit is strategically positioned to take advantage of both the views and the natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere where guests can feel connected to the surrounding landscape. The architectural design features varied layouts that allow for flexibility, ensuring that guests experience a sense of community while retaining the option for personal solitude. This arrangement promotes an interactive environment, encouraging conversations and connections among users.

Materiality plays a central role in the project’s identity. The selection of glue laminated timber for structural elements imbues the design with strength while accentuating the visual warmth of wood. This choice reflects a commitment to using natural, local materials that resonate with the site’s character. The incorporation of metal trims serves both aesthetic and functional purposes, providing clean lines while enhancing durability. Additionally, the implementation of green roofing not only contributes to the building's sustainability goals but also integrates the design with the local ecology, fostering biodiversity in the area.

Detailed elements within the project further enhance the user experience. Generous glazing is used throughout the huts, allowing for ample sunlight to permeate the interiors, which helps to establish a seamless connection with the outside. Wet rooms and sleeping quarters are designed to create a sense of tranquility, where natural materials and soft, neutral colors work together to evoke comfort and relaxation. Common areas, such as kitchen spaces and reading nooks, encourage interaction and provide communal hubs for guests, aligning with the project's vision of a shared yet personal retreat.

The approach to landscaping is equally considered, with greenery employed to add layers of privacy and aesthetic appeal. Natural buffers along pathways and communal spaces soften the impact of built forms while promoting a dialogue between architecture and nature. This attention to the environment not only enhances the visual landscape but also aligns with contemporary architectural practices that prioritize sustainability and ecological responsibility.

What sets this project apart is its innovative integration of movement and interaction within a cohesive design language. The architectural narrative is shaped by the idea of windsurfing, infusing dynamism into the structure's forms, suggesting motion even in a stationary context. The design conveys a harmonious relationship between built and natural environments, with an emphasis on the experiences of the occupants.

The project ultimately redefines contemporary accommodation by marrying functionality with a deep respect for the environment, resulting in a space that truly resonates with its geographical context. Readers interested in exploring the intricacies of this architectural endeavor are encouraged to review additional resources such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs to gain a deeper understanding of the innovative ideas reflected in the project. The presentation of this architecture offers valuable insights into the thoughtful design processes that inform its execution and aesthetic.
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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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