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Elevated Retreat with Gabled Roof and Sustainable Composite Panels

Author:
Mark Johnson
Elevated Retreat with Gabled Roof and Sustainable Composite Panels

Project in-detail

Constructed with stilted design and a gabled roof, the retreat utilizes composite panels and large glass elements to enhance its coastal connection while providing a flexible space for outdoor enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated on stilts to mitigate flooding risks while maintaining views.
02
Incorporates bent A-frame design for structural efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
03
Employs charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and durability.
04
Large glass panels strategically positioned to optimize natural light and panorama.
05
Flexible interior spaces designed for multifunctional use and adaptability.

## Overview
Located along Latvia's Baltic Sea coast, the Trekking Cabin embodies a contemporary interpretation of local architectural traditions while addressing environmental sustainability. This design reflects a commitment to fostering a sustainable relationship with its natural surroundings and serves as a practical retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. The cabin's strategic placement at the water's edge enhances the user's connection to the landscape and emphasizes the dynamic interplay between built form and nature.

## Architectural Expression
### Form and Structural Considerations
The Trekking Cabin features a steeply gabled roof that draws inspiration from traditional Latvian design. This form not only contributes to the aesthetic quality of the structure but also facilitates efficient water drainage, an essential characteristic for coastal architecture. The elongated profile enhances the cabin's vertical presence, reinforcing its resilience against strong winds while framing expansive views of the sea and sky.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
Materials were selected with a focus on local availability and sustainable practices, ensuring the cabin's integration with its environment. Key components include timber frame construction for structural support and warmth, large glass panels that invite natural light and views, lightweight metal for roofing and fasteners that withstand coastal elements, and composite panels for exterior cladding that improve insulation. Together, these materials contribute to the energy efficiency of the building while maintaining a strong visual and functional connection to its coastal setting.

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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
competition now

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