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Elevated Trekking Cabin Crafted from Local Timber and Charred Shingles on the Baltic Coast

Authors:
Aaron Cleveland, Gautam Palav, Spencer Bates
Elevated Trekking Cabin Crafted from Local Timber and Charred Shingles on the Baltic Coast

Project in-detail

Crafted from locally-sourced timber and charred shingles, this elevated cabin seamlessly integrates with the Baltic landscape, providing a sustainable retreat for trekkers seeking refuge in nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure minimizes ground disturbance and blends into the natural terrain.
02
Constructed using locally-sourced materials to support regional economies.
03
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and fire resistance.
04
Bent A-frame design promotes efficient rainwater runoff and natural ventilation.
05
Large glazed sections provide expansive views of the Baltic Sea while maximizing light.

### Overview
Located along the Latvian coast near Jūrmala and Tuja, the trekking cabin integrates thoughtfully with its surrounding landscapes, characterized by cliffs that overlook the Baltic Sea and adjacent serene forests. The design emphasizes a mindful interaction with the ecological and cultural context, prioritizing a minimal impact on the environment while providing a functional retreat for trekkers.

### Structural and Spatial Strategy
The design features an elevated mass to reduce ground disturbance and enhance the aesthetic value by aligning with the natural topography. A strategically sloped roof reduces heat gain and maximizes natural light through strategically positioned skylights, contributing to an energy-efficient environment. The interior layout is minimalist, fostering communal interactions and tranquility, with spaces that invite natural light, creating a comfortable refuge for visitors.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
Materials are selected with an emphasis on sustainability and local relevance. Locally-sourced timber enhances the project's cultural connections while minimizing transportation emissions. The structural foundation utilizes concrete for stability, and large glass elements facilitate daylight entry and offer expansive views of the natural surroundings. Key sustainable practices include efficient resource management through local sourcing, passive heating and cooling strategies, and a rainwater catchment system that promotes self-sufficiency. This approach minimizes the carbon footprint and underscores a commitment to ecological preservation and community engagement.

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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
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