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Elevated Cabin with Eco-Friendly Timber and Rainwater Harvesting Along the Baltic Landscape

Authors:
Muriel Ferneini, Lama Sawma
Elevated Cabin with Eco-Friendly Timber and Rainwater Harvesting Along the Baltic Landscape
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The elevated design utilizes locally sourced timber and integrates a rainwater harvesting system to provide a sustainable lodging experience for hikers exploring the unique landscapes along the Amber Road in Latvia.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated on stilts, the cabin minimizes ecological disruption while offering panoramic views.
02
Locally sourced timber is used extensively, enhancing sustainability and reducing transportation impact.
03
A rainwater harvesting system provides essential water needs, promoting self-sufficiency.
04
Fishnet hammocks transform indoor spaces into versatile living areas, blending comfort with functionality.
05
Integrated bird habitats support local wildlife, reinforcing the project's commitment to ecological stewardship.

### Project Overview

Located along the Amber Road in Latvia, this elevated lodging cabin is designed to accommodate hikers while fostering a connection with the surrounding natural landscape. Its elevated structure provides a sweeping view of Latvia's flat terrain, facilitating a unique observational experience amidst the local pine trees. The design focuses on enhancing user comfort and safety while minimizing environmental impact.

### Elevated Design and Spatial Strategy

The cabin is elevated on stilts, which prevents disruption to the local ecosystem and adds to the overall experience with panoramic views. Access is provided via a ladder that serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, integrating seamlessly into the structure. Internally, the cabin features a carefully planned layout that separates semi-private sleeping areas from communal spaces, promoting interaction among users. Compact sleeping quarters maximize space without compromising comfort, and versatile fishnet hammocks serve as both sleeping accommodations and lounge areas, bridging the indoor and outdoor environments.

### Sustainable Materiality and Features

Sustainability is a core principle of the design, reflected in the choice of materials and integrated systems. Local timber is extensively used for its aesthetic appeal and structural durability, while a secondary timber framework enhances livability by providing support for wildlife habitats and creating a mosquito-proof environment. Photovoltaic panels are installed to harness solar energy for essential power needs, supported by a rainwater collection and filtration system that ensures access to clean water. These features collectively emphasize an eco-friendly approach, ensuring that the cabin operates sustainably and remains in harmony with its natural surroundings.

The design also allows for adaptation across various terrains along the Baltic Sea, contributing to a reduced environmental footprint. The cabin’s spatial organization encourages outdoor communal activities while fostering engagement with the natural environment, positioning it as a hub for awareness and appreciation of Latvia’s ecological heritage.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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