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Double Glazed Panels and Mesh Screens Elevate Seasonal Cabins Above the Venta River

Author:
Juan david Ledesma
Double Glazed Panels and Mesh Screens Elevate Seasonal Cabins Above the Venta River

Project in-detail

Elevated on piers to mitigate flooding from the Venta River, the seasonal cabins incorporate double glazed panels and mesh screens to create a flexible environment that adapts to changing weather while providing a comfortable retreat space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design protects against potential flooding from snowmelt.
02
Adaptable porch features removable mesh screens for summer ventilation.
03
Double glazed panels optimize energy efficiency while allowing natural light.
04
Wooden skirt visually integrates cabins with the landscape.
05
Southern-facing windows enhance passive solar heating.

Caramel Shore Traveller Rooms is a retreat that blends modern design with the peaceful landscape of Latvia. Located near the Venta River, the cabins aim to provide a comfortable living space that responds to the changing seasons. The design focuses on creating a nurturing environment for occupants, emphasizing the relationship between the buildings and their natural surroundings.

Design and Elevation

The cabins are raised on piers to protect against possible flooding from snowmelt. This elevation not only addresses practical issues but also enhances the interaction between the structures and the land. The approach ensures that the buildings complement the landscape rather than disrupt it.

Adaptive Porch

A notable feature of the design is the adaptable porch, complete with mesh screens that allow for airflow in the summer. These screens help to keep the interiors cool while connecting occupants to the outdoor space. In winter, plastic panels can be used to improve thermal comfort, showcasing a flexible response to different weather conditions.

Material Palette

Materials used in the construction support both functionality and visual appeal. Double glazed panels are included for their insulating abilities and ability to let in natural light. The 2'x6' siding contributes to the structural integrity while providing a clean look. Fiberglass insulation improves energy efficiency, underscoring a commitment to sustainability.

Connection to Landscape

Large windows on the southern facade enhance sunlight exposure and passive solar heating. A wooden skirt along the decking visually lifts the cabins, creating the impression that they gently rest on the site. This detail strengthens the connection between the built environment and the beautiful Latvian landscape, encouraging a continuous relationship between interior spaces and the natural world.

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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

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