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Dynamic Foldable Structures Crafted from Local Timber for Community Engagement in Natural Settings

Author:
Jimena González
Dynamic Foldable Structures Crafted from Local Timber for Community Engagement in Natural Settings
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Dynamic foldable walls constructed from locally sourced timber create adaptable cabins that enhance community interaction while providing essential shelter for hikers in Latvia's forests.
5 key facts about this project
01
Dynamic wall systems allow for versatile spatial configurations.
02
Utilizes locally sourced cross-laminated timber for sustainable construction.
03
Charred wooden shingles enhance weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
04
Asymmetrical bent A-frame design integrates with the forest landscape.
05
Designed to foster community interaction among hikers through shared spaces.

### Project Overview

The Dancing Cabins project is situated in the forests of Latvia, strategically located along scenic trails that connect to the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Riga. The cabins are designed to enhance the experiences of hikers by providing rest and shelter while fostering a close relationship with the surrounding natural environment. The architectural design reflects the rhythms and movements of traditional Latvian folk dances, aiming to create a unique sheltering experience within the landscape.

### Spatial Configuration and User Engagement

The cabins feature dynamic walls that can be adjusted to suit the needs of occupants, promoting optimal ventilation and light while shielding users from adverse weather conditions. This adaptability not only contributes to user comfort but also aligns with principles of sustainability. Positioned at intervals along hiking trails—approximately every 25 to 30 kilometers—the cabins serve as communal touchpoints, facilitating interactions between hikers and local communities. Each cabin design incorporates communal spaces that encourage socialization, thereby enriching the overall user experience.

### Material Selection and Structural Efficiency

The material palette for the Dancing Cabins emphasizes local sourcing and environmental compatibility. The predominant use of wood, including plywood and wood panels, integrates the structures harmoniously within their natural context. Glass elements within the walls enhance natural light and connect occupants with the outdoor environment. The structural system employs wooden joists and concrete or stone foundations, ensuring stability while allowing for design versatility. This focus on sustainable materials and construction practices not only enhances the buildings' thermal performance but also minimizes ecological impact, contributing to a more responsible use of resources within the forest environment.

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

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