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Elevated Living Space with Walkable Roof and Natural Insulation Elements

Author:
Matteo D'Incà
Elevated Living Space with Walkable Roof and Natural Insulation Elements

Project in-detail

A walkable roof integrates natural insulation and galvanized steel elements in a design that elevates the living space above the landscape, providing a sustainable seasonal cabin experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
A walkable roof design enhances interaction with the natural surroundings while maintaining ecological integrity.
02
Natural insulation is achieved using locally sourced straw and reed materials, reducing environmental impact.
03
Elevated structure allows for wildlife movement beneath, fostering biodiversity on the site.
04
Charred wooden shingles provide durability and a unique aesthetic, referencing traditional building methods.
05
The open-plan interior facilitates flexibility for social gatherings and seasonal changes in usage.

### Overview
The project is situated in Latvia, where the design integrates local cultural heritage with contemporary architectural practices, emphasizing sustainability and adaptability within the natural landscape. Drawing inspiration from traditional Latvian wooden architecture and Icelandic turf houses, the built environment aims to blend functionality with aesthetic considerations, creating a dialogue between past and present.

### Spatial Integration and User Experience
The architectural concept revolves around the theme of a "turf cabin," where the elevated structure facilitates a harmonious coexistence with the surrounding environment. This design choice allows for the free movement of wildlife and vegetation beneath the building, reinforcing the connection between human habitation and nature. The interior layout is characterized by an open-plan arrangement that promotes multifunctionality, accommodating different group sizes and transforming spaces as needed. Large openings invite natural light and views, fostering an engaging atmosphere for inhabitants.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The project prioritizes the use of locally sourced materials to minimize environmental impact and reduce transportation emissions. Externally, wood serves as the primary structural element, reflecting regional craftsmanship, while galvanized steel is employed for durability and stability. Internally, reclaimed timber is utilized for flooring, and natural insulation materials such as straw and reed enhance thermal comfort. Sustainable technologies, including a multifunctional fireplace for heating water and cooking, illustrate a commitment to modern eco-friendly practices. Additional features such as rainwater harvesting systems contribute to the building’s overall sustainability, while design elements that echo the undulating landscape further integrate the structure into its context.

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

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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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