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Elevated Retreat Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles

Authors:
Marco Ruperto, Silvia Irianni
Elevated Retreat Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles

Project in-detail

Elevated above the forest floor, the cabin's design utilizes cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles, seamlessly blending functionality with aesthetics to provide a sustainable retreat for outdoor enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure minimizes ground impact and maximizes existing landscape preservation.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural stability and insulation.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance and a unique aesthetic.
04
Features large glazed openings to foster a seamless connection with the surrounding environment.
05
Modular design allows for easy assembly and adaptability to various sites.

### Overview
This project is situated in Latvia's wooded landscapes, aiming to create a refuge for travelers along long-distance trails. The design harmoniously fuses traditional wooden architecture with modular geometry, reflecting the contextual relevance of Latvia's architectural heritage while promoting a sense of community and social interaction.

### Spatial Organization
The internal layout is strategically segmented into functional zones: an entrance, a sleeping and storage area, and a communal space centered around a fireplace. This open-plan configuration enhances interaction with the natural surroundings and accommodates flexible use. Large glazed openings throughout the structure provide ample natural light and panoramic views, fostering a connection between the interior and the outdoor environment.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The construction employs locally sourced Latvian timber, particularly engineered wood such as cross-laminated timber (X-LAM), to ensure structural integrity and thermal insulation. Double-glazing window systems enhance energy efficiency while maintaining transparency. A helical pier foundation system minimizes site disturbance, allowing for an elevated construction that helps integrate the cabin within its landscape. The exterior features vertical louvers and ribbed wooden floor slabs, providing texture and aiding in energy efficiency through durable insulation practices. This project emphasizes eco-friendly materials and adaptable modular assembly, addressing contemporary demands for sustainability and practicality in architectural design.

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

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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
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