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 Retreat Constructed with Latvian Timber and Modular Techniques Among Coastal Ecosystem

Author:
David Huntly-Grant
Elevated Retreat Constructed with Latvian Timber and Modular Techniques Among Coastal Ecosystem

Project in-detail

Constructed with locally sourced Latvian timber and elevated on stilt foundations, these cabins offer a sustainable retreat that harmonizes with the coastal environment while providing adaptable living spaces for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced Latvian timber to ensure sustainability.
02
Elevated on stilt foundations to minimize environmental impact and flooding risk.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that enhances structural integrity and aesthetics.
04
Integrates large glazing areas for natural light and views of the coastal ecosystem.
05
Modular construction enables efficient assembly and adaptability for seasonal use.

**Overview and Context**
The Amber Route Trekking Cabins are located along the Baltic Sea in Latvia, designed to enhance the natural experience of a coastal environment. The project aims to create structures that provide panoramic views of the sea and surrounding forests while minimizing ecological disruption. Elevated above the ground, the cabins serve as vantage points that facilitate engagement with nature.

**Spatial Organization and Modular Design**
The architectural configuration features an open living space that promotes both community interaction and individual comfort. The adaptable layout accommodates various activities such as dining and sleeping. Constructed using prefabricated modules, the cabins can be assembled quickly, reducing on-site construction time and allowing for future relocation if necessary. This modularity aligns with contemporary architectural principles and enhances the efficiency of the overall design.

**Material Selection and Sustainability**
A commitment to sustainability is reflected in the choice of locally sourced materials, particularly Latvian timber, which is used for structural and aesthetic elements. Plywood is utilized for internal sheathing, enhancing the warmth and acoustic qualities of interiors. The incorporation of glass allows for abundant natural light and unobstructed views, fostering a strong connection to the surrounding landscape. The design also integrates climate-responsive features such as shading devices and natural ventilation systems, promoting energy efficiency and harmony with the local climate.

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