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Elevated Structure of Charred Wooden Shingles with Cross-Laminated Panels in a Forest Setting

Author:
Joana Venancio
Elevated Structure of Charred Wooden Shingles with Cross-Laminated Panels in a Forest Setting

Project in-detail

An elevated structure built with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels seamlessly integrates into the Latvian forest, providing a communal retreat for trekkers seeking a space to connect and share experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure reduces ground disturbance, preserving the natural forest ecosystem.
02
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and provide natural weather resistance.
03
Incorporates personalized mementos from visitors, creating a collective memory space.
04
Diamond-shaped windows maximize light and views while maintaining privacy.
05
Features a double fireplace as a central gathering point for social interaction.

### Project Overview
Located within the pine forests of Latvia, Atmīna serves as a temporary shelter for trekkers exploring the Baltic Coast. The structure seeks to harmonize contemporary design with the local cultural narrative, promoting a retreat into nature that encourages rest, reflection, and the sharing of experiences among travelers.

### Architectural Form and Spatial Strategy
The design features a distinctive triangular gable roof, an element that enhances aesthetic qualities while effective rain and snow runoff. This shape mirrors the surrounding tree peaks, fostering visual cohesion with the natural environment. Elevated on wooden poles, the structure minimizes ground disturbance and preserves the ecosystem, while providing protection against wildlife and flooding. Inside, the allocation of private and communal areas allows for both social interaction and individual retreat, accommodating essential amenities such as a composting toilet and a double fireplace that serves both functional and social purposes.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Timber is the primary construction material, reflecting Latvia's woodworking tradition and offering sustainability and thermal efficiency. Natural slate or wooden shingles are recommended for roofing, ensuring durability and aesthetic integration. Strategically placed diamond-shaped windows are employed to enhance natural light and frame views of the forest, connecting the interior with its surroundings. The design also incorporates sustainable systems, including solar panels and rainwater harvesting, demonstrating a commitment to ecological standards while providing necessary utilities. The elevated structure supports local undergrowth, fostering biodiversity in the area and reinforcing the environmental ethos of the project.

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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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