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Embracing Nature with Xlam and Mineral Wool in Riverside Cabins

Authors:
Christian Massi, Andrea Baroncelli
Embracing Nature with Xlam and Mineral Wool in Riverside Cabins

Project in-detail

Constructed with Xlam and insulated with mineral wool, the design of riverside cabins prioritizes energy efficiency while offering flexible spaces for recreation and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily with Xlam structural panels for enhanced durability.
02
Features an outdoor gym promoting fitness in a natural setting.
03
Includes a sunken seating area around the fireplace for communal gatherings.
04
Utilizes mineral wool insulation for energy efficiency and soundproofing.
05
Incorporates terraces designed to maximize views of the surrounding river.

The Skrunda project is located along the Venta River, integrating built forms with the surrounding landscape. The design features several cabins that accommodate sleeping, dining, and leisure functions. The main concept centers on connecting users with nature and enhancing their experience within the environment.

Concept and Spatial Organization

The layout is organized with pathways that guide movement through the site. Visitors can easily navigate from the street arrival to various areas, including parking and storage. Each cabin is positioned thoughtfully to maximize views of the river while offering privacy for residents, promoting both individuality and community.

Key Architectural Elements

One significant feature is the uncovered cabin, which includes a fireplace, sauna, and outdoor gym. This cabin encourages wellness and outdoor activity among users. The convivial terrace overlooks the pathways and encourages social interactions, while the intimate terrace provides a space for quiet reflection with views of the river.

Material Considerations

External metal panels form part of the building's skin, while mineral wool and EPS insulation are used to enhance thermal performance. Xlam structural walls are employed for strength, and airtight expandable adhesive tape contributes to a well-sealed environment. The design also reflects a commitment to sustainability, repurposing waste from prefabrication into the construction process of curved wall sections.

Design Details and Aesthetic Integration

Attention to detail is evident in the project’s design. A sunken seating area around the fireplace creates a warm and inviting space for gatherings. This arrangement fosters interaction among users, making the architecture a central element in daily life rather than merely a backdrop. The overall design articulates a thoughtful balance between the built environment and its context along the Venta River.

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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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