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Curvilinear Structure Emphasizing Charred Wood and Transparent Facades for Engaging Outdoor Experience

Authors:
Armando Roman, María del Mar Carballo, Cruz Criollo
Curvilinear Structure Emphasizing Charred Wood and Transparent Facades for Engaging Outdoor Experience

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wood and polycarbonate elements, the design seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings to create an immersive space for communal gathering and exploration along the Latvian Amber Route.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to reduce construction waste and promote sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design for optimal structural integrity and aesthetic fluidity.
04
Paths are designed as circular routes, encouraging exploration and connection with nature.
05
Incorporates large polycarbonate panels that maximize natural light while maintaining insulation.

### Overview

Located along the Latvian Amber Route, the design is centered on the relationship between human experience and the surrounding natural landscape. The project emphasizes the act of walking as a means of interaction with varied terrains, promoting inclusive spaces for contemplation and connection with nature. The architectural concept is deeply rooted in ecological consciousness, seeking to integrate built elements harmoniously within the diverse site characterized by sandy beaches, dense woods, and marshy areas.

### Spatial Strategy and Connectivity

Central to the project are the pathways that facilitate exploration and discovery. These routes are designed with varied textures and experiences, including flexible wooden paths that adapt to moisture-prone areas, enhancing environmental harmony. The circulatory design encourages users to engage with multiple environments—forest, marsh, and beach—promoting an interconnected experience with the landscape. The careful curation of paths leads to areas that inspire reflection and interaction, emphasizing the architect's intent to shape both physical and emotional journeys through the site.

### Materiality and Aesthetic Integration

The selection of materials reflects an intention to balance functional performance with ecological sensitivity. Key materials include burned wood plank for roofing, which offers both durability and visual appeal, and polycarbonate walls that allow for natural light while providing insulation. Vertical wooden planks serve to reinforce the structure and enhance visual connection with the forest landscape. Each component of the design, from the pathways to the building elements, is thoughtfully chosen to foster an immersive experience that complements the natural environment. Furthermore, the interior spaces are designed to create a cozy ambiance, with a central fireplace area promoting social interaction and abundant natural light facilitating a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors.

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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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