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Faceted Design With Charred Wooden Shingles Overlooking Coastal Nature

Authors:
Shi-Yen Wu, Shang-Chi Guo
Faceted Design With Charred Wooden Shingles Overlooking Coastal Nature

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wooden shingles and featuring a faceted design that reflects the beauty of its coastal setting, the retreat offers a serene escape immersed in nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin features a bent A-frame design that enhances structural integrity while creating a distinct visual profile.
02
Charred wooden shingles not only provide a unique aesthetic but also enhance durability against the elements.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are used extensively, promoting sustainability and energy efficiency in construction.
04
Large faceted windows offer panoramic views and natural light, seamlessly connecting interior spaces with the coastal landscape.
05
The project incorporates innovative water harvesting systems to minimize environmental impact and promote self-sufficiency.
The Amber Cabin project presents a thoughtful architectural design situated along the scenic coastline of Latvia, skillfully merging modern living with a deep respect for the natural environment. This project symbolizes a unique blend of cultural heritage and contemporary needs, focusing on the resonance of local materials and the region’s connection to ancient traditions, particularly reflecting the significance of amber, which has long been treasured in Latvian culture.

Functionally, the Amber Cabin serves as a retreat space for visitors, providing various accommodation options that cater to diverse groups, from individuals seeking solitude to families looking for a communal getaway. The design features a range of cabin types, including single, double, and triple room configurations, all designed to enhance social interaction without sacrificing personal space. This versatility ensures that the cabins can accommodate a variety of guest needs, promoting both community and privacy during their stay.

One of the key aspects of the Amber Cabin design is its harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape. The architecture draws inspiration from the natural forms and geometric characteristics of amber itself, resulting in angular facades that mirror organic shapes. The structure is elevated slightly above the ground, which not only accommodates potential sea-tide fluctuations but also minimizes environmental disruption, preserving the existing ecosystem.

A careful material selection underscores the project’s commitment to sustainability. The primary materials employed include wood, glass, and steel, each chosen for its contribution to the aesthetic and functional goals of the design. Wood serves as the main structural framework, promoting warmth and a sense of connection to nature, while expansive glass panels allow for natural light to penetrate the interiors and frame picturesque views of the coastal environment. Steel provides the necessary structural support that complements the design’s modern approach, ensuring durability.

Inside the cabins, the atmosphere is intended to foster relaxation and a connection to the surroundings. The open living spaces are designed to be multi-functional, accommodating both communal gatherings and individual quiet time. The use of natural colors and materials creates a soothing environment, encouraging guests to unwind and immerse themselves in the beauty of the coastal landscape.

Unique design strategies, such as the integration of energy-efficient technologies, further enhance the project's appeal. Each cabin is equipped with systems that promote energy autonomy, such as solar panels for power generation and rainwater harvesting features for water conservation. This emphasis on sustainability reflects a growing trend in architecture that seeks to create not just functional spaces but environmentally responsible ones.

The Amber Cabin stands out for its cultural and symbolic representation of Latvia, where amber is more than a material; it embodies warmth, history, and a connection to nature. By incorporating this symbol into the architectural narrative, the cabins not only serve as temporary living spaces but also as a platform for storytelling and cultural engagement.

As you explore the Amber Cabin project, take the opportunity to review its architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain deeper insights into its thoughtful layout and design approaches. This project offers a refreshing perspective on modern architecture intertwined with local heritage, inviting a dialogue on how built environments can coexist with nature and culture.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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