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Fieldstone Foundation and Softwood Structure Empowering Ecotourism in a Natural Setting

Authors:
Hakjae Kim, Xie Yunfei
Fieldstone Foundation and Softwood Structure Empowering Ecotourism in a Natural Setting

Project in-detail

Constructed with a resilient fieldstone foundation and warm softwood materials, this ecotourism center offers a seamless integration with its natural surroundings while facilitating community engagement and sustainable practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced fieldstone and softwood, enhancing environmental integration.
02
Features a dedicated herbal garden to promote local flora and educational workshops.
03
Maximizes natural light with large glass windows, promoting energy efficiency and comfort.
04
Emphasizes flexibility in spatial design, accommodating various community activities and gatherings.
05
Incorporates passive design strategies for effective climate control and minimal energy use.
The Ozolini Experience Pot is an architectural project located in Latvia, designed to function as a guest house and a center for ecotourism. It aims to create a space that fosters interaction with the surrounding natural landscape while providing a versatile environment for various activities, including workshops, community gatherings, and leisurely stays. The architectural design merges functionality with aesthetic appeal, establishing a connection between visitors and the elements of nature.

Integration with Nature
A principal feature of the Ozolini Experience Pot is its deliberate integration with the local environment. The design takes cues from the natural topography and materials typical of the region. Local stone, specifically fieldstone, forms the foundation and lower walls, providing durability while maintaining a rustic aesthetic. Softwood is extensively used throughout, contributing warmth to the interiors, while zinc or galvanized steel accents the roofing, presenting a modern contrast to organic materials. The building incorporates large glass windows and doors, allowing abundant natural light to penetrate the space and ensuring visual connections to outdoor areas.

The project’s layout is both intentional and flexible, facilitating diverse functions through a well-organized configuration of communal and private spaces. Open-plan areas encourage interaction, while thoughtful placement of structures maintains a sense of privacy where needed. A unique herbal garden is incorporated into the design, promoting education on local flora and providing hands-on experiences related to harvesting and understanding medicinal plants.

Sustainable Architectural Practices
Sustainability is a central theme in the Ozolini Experience Pot's design approach. The project emphasizes eco-friendly building practices through passive design strategies that minimize energy consumption. Natural ventilation is optimized via strategically placed openings that enhance airflow while reducing reliance on artificial climate control measures. The decision to utilize materials sourced locally further supports sustainability, reducing transportation emissions and boosting the local economy.

The innovative use of open, flexible layouts enhances the user experience by allowing adaptable spaces that can transform depending on the needs of the visitors. The design promotes an active lifestyle through well-defined pathways that connect various outdoor and indoor elements, encouraging exploration and engagement with both the architecture and its surroundings.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the Ozolini Experience Pot, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are invited to delve deeper into the project presentation. This exploration can provide valuable insights into how design, functionality, and sustainability intersect within this unique architectural endeavor.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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