Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Fired Spruce Cabins Embracing Latvian Symbolism and Community Spirit

Authors:
Julia Broszkiewicz, Hanna Półtorak
Fired Spruce Cabins Embracing Latvian Symbolism and Community Spirit

Project in-detail

Fired spruce cabins embodying the symbolism of Austra's Tree create a tranquil retreat that encourages community engagement and connection to the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Fired spruce wood is prominently used, aligning with environmental sustainability goals.
02
The design incorporates the symbolism of Austra's Tree, connecting past, present, and future.
03
Cabins feature distinct sharp forms, enhancing the visual narrative of local culture.
04
Each facility complements geometric relationships, fostering cohesion across the site.
05
A color palette of sage and earth tones promotes a tranquil and inviting atmosphere.

The project is located in a setting that highlights the cultural heritage of Latvia. Inspired by the symbol of Austra's Tree, the design reflects a deep connection to themes of unity, which bridge the past, present, and future. It aims to create a peaceful environment that serves as both a retreat and a space for community interaction. The carefully planned layout of the cabins promotes this dual function, allowing users to find solace while also engaging with one another.

Symbolic Integration

The design beautifully incorporates Latvian cultural symbols through its representation of Austra's Tree. The cabins are shaped with sharp elements and divided into two sections, a direct reference to the nearby Totem. This design decision fosters visual coherence and strengthens the narrative that is deeply rooted in local traditions. Each building is crafted to contribute to a story about cultural identity and place, ensuring that the architecture resonates with its surroundings.

Sustainability and Materiality

A strong focus on environmental sustainability guides the selection of materials. Fired spruce wood is prominently used in the building’s elevation, reflecting an awareness of ecological concerns, particularly in relation to local biodiversity. This material choice balances aesthetic appeal with a commitment to sustainability. The decision to use such wood aligns the project with ecological principles and creates a connection to the natural environment surrounding it.

Atmosphere and Color Palette

The chosen palette of sage and earth tones adds to the tranquility of the environment. These calming colors evoke feelings of comfort and safety, enhancing the experience for visitors. The use of these hues not only supports the project’s serene atmosphere but also connects it visually to the natural landscape. The colors play a significant role in creating an inviting space where people can relax and reflect.

The arrangement of cabins alongside communal areas encourages social interactions among users. The clarity and simplicity in the building’s forms emphasize a modern aesthetic while respecting traditional influences. Every element comes together to promote a harmonious experience that encourages a sense of belonging, fostering a connection to the land and to each other.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy