5 key facts about this project
The eco-tourism cabin at Ozolini Farm is located about 100 km from Riga, Latvia. Designed as a retreat for meditation and self-reflection, the cabin encourages visitors to connect with nature. The architectural concept focuses on creating a smooth transition from a busy urban lifestyle to a peaceful natural environment, supporting eco-tourism and sustainable practices.
User Experience
The design arranges the user experience into three distinct stages: approach, entry, and immersion. As visitors walk along the natural pathways leading to the cabin, they begin to engage with the landscape, mentally preparing for their time of reflection. Upon arrival, a prominent wooden beam embedded in the floor becomes the focal point, helping guide users through the space. This beam directs attention toward a specific view of the forest, enhancing the sense of calm.
Interior Spatial Configuration
Inside the cabin, opaque walls on three sides help concentrate focus on the outdoor scenery. The heavy timber elements provide structural support while also creating a feeling of safety and comfort. Natural light enters through a skylight, adding warmth to the interior and allowing the changing daylight to shape the space throughout the day.
Sustainable Design Elements
The cabin is elevated on stable pin piles, which minimizes its impact on the surrounding landscape. This design decision aligns with sustainable methods important for eco-tourism. Essential features like a toilet, food storage, and sleeping quarters are tucked away into the walls and floor. This arrangement allows for a flexible interior that can accommodate different meditative practices and activities.
Materiality
Indigenous timbers form the structural framework, reflecting the local environment while ensuring durability. Fire-charred wood shakes cover the exterior, combining traditional building methods with contemporary needs. This choice of materials creates a connection to local architectural traditions while providing a functional and lasting exterior.
The design culminates in a beam that extends beyond the interior space, offering direct access to the outdoors. This feature invites visitors to experience the natural sounds surrounding the cabin, further enhancing the atmosphere of tranquility and reflection.
