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Embracing Nature Through Dry Stone Walls and Flexible Community Spaces

Author:
Jonas Virsik
Embracing Nature Through Dry Stone Walls and Flexible Community Spaces

Project in-detail

The integration of dry stone walls creates a unique framework for flexible community spaces in Omuli, Latvia, fostering artistic collaboration and cultural engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a Museum of the Horse within a restored old school building.
02
Flexible workshop spaces are integrated with outdoor gardens for artistic activities.
03
Dry stone walls reference the nearby ruins of Ergeme Castle, enhancing historical context.
04
Community gathering areas are designed to promote collaboration among diverse users.
05
Natural light flows through strategically placed openings, connecting interiors with the landscape.

Omuli Gardens is a development situated in the scenic setting of Omuli, Latvia. The focus of the project is to create a lively environment for artists, craftsmen, and visitors alike. It integrates various spaces with the natural surroundings. The design concept aims to establish a strong relationship between the structures and the gardens, allowing creativity to flourish in an inviting atmosphere.

Phase I serves as the first step, including essential facilities such as workshops, kitchens, toilets, and service areas. It also features the existing old school building, which has retained its character while adapting to new uses. The layout promotes flexibility, allowing for a smooth flow between activities. This phase lays the groundwork for future expansions while maintaining the community's essence.



In Phase II, the development grows to include a construction school, additional workshops, and accommodations, along with a Museum of the Horse. This museum is located within the old school structure, designed to link the building more closely with the outdoors. Openings in the design enhance the flow of natural light and views of the gardens. This connection encourages community participation and provides a platform for artistic activities. Each part is carefully crafted to work together, contributing to a lively mix of cultural experiences.



Phase III introduces further service facilities, reinforcing the unity of the project. The arrangement of spaces allows for collaboration among a variety of users. This design promotes accessibility, creating an environment where individuals can come together for both personal and group activities. The layout reflects a commitment to fostering community spirit across all phases.



A significant element of the design is the dry stone walls found throughout the site. These walls, commonly used in Europe, offer sturdiness and require little upkeep. They also enrich the ecological environment by providing habitats for various plants and animals. Inside the renovated old school, a two-story garden hall showcases the original building's features while creating a spacious area for gatherings. This careful blending of past and present enriches the user experience and highlights the project’s thoughtful approach.

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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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