Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Elevated Coastal Retreat Crafted From Patina Copper and Cedar Embracing Nature

Authors:
Jessica Signore, Ronn Daniel
Elevated Coastal Retreat Crafted From Patina Copper and Cedar Embracing Nature

Project in-detail

Elevated six feet above the Baltic shoreline, the structure uniquely combines patina copper and cedar to create a sustainable gathering space that seamlessly integrates with its coastal environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated six feet to mitigate flood risks while enhancing views of the Baltic coast.
02
Utilizes a combination of patina copper roofing and medium-light cedar wood for durability and aesthetics.
03
Incorporates cantilevered roofs that mimic natural wave forms for unique visual impact.
04
Features large openings that maximize natural light and connection to the surrounding landscape.
05
Integrates mosquito netting with copper poles, balancing comfort and functional design.

## Project Overview
Located along the Baltic coast on Amber Road in Latvia, the project is designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings while addressing both aesthetic and functional requirements in a challenging environmental context. The architecture aims to create a connection with the water and landscape while emphasizing sustainability and resilience against coastal elements.

## Structural Strategy
The design features a cantilevered structure elevated six feet above the shoreline, allowing for interaction with the environment while minimizing ecological disruption. The architectural form comprises sharp angles and triangular canopies that provide sheltered spaces. The roof’s design is inspired by natural forms, mimicking waves and drifting snow, which enhances both visual appeal and functionality by optimizing water runoff.

## Materiality and User Experience
A diverse selection of materials is integral to the project’s identity and ecological sustainability. Patina copper is used for roofing due to its durability and aging properties, while medium-light cedar wood serves for floor structures, promoting both aesthetic quality and sustainability. The incorporation of aluminum tubing in the framing ensures structural integrity while maintaining a lightweight profile. The interior layout is optimized for engagement with nature, featuring large openings for panoramic views and defined pathways leading to gathering spaces. This configuration fosters a unique experiential journey that encourages reflection and connection with the coastal environment.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy