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Floating Glass Facades Above a Historical Barn Informed by Synaptic Connections

Author:
Talal El masri
Floating Glass Facades Above a Historical Barn Informed by Synaptic Connections

Project in-detail

The design features floating glass facades supported by vertical elements that create a visual connection between a contemporary structure and a historical stone barn, serving as a guest house in the Riga Region.
5 key facts about this project
01
Floating glass facades create a visual connection with the surrounding landscape.
02
The design incorporates a 'Synaptic Gap' for interaction between old and new structures.
03
Vertical elements support the building, enhancing the perception of levitation.
04
Roof extensions provide seasonal shade and sunlight management.
05
The stone barn acts as a natural light filter, creating a balanced interior atmosphere.

The Ozolini Guest House is located in the scenic Riga Region and presents a design that aligns with its natural surroundings. The concept revolves around "Synapse Connections," which takes inspiration from how neurons interact biologically. The building serves as a retreat that connects with the existing stone barn, showcasing modern design while honoring historical elements.

Conceptual Framework

The design introduces a 'Synaptic Gap' between the new structure and the stone barn. This gap allows for an appreciation of both buildings without physical contact. It creates a space where the new design can communicate with the historical context. Visitors can explore freely, moving between indoor areas and the natural landscape outside.

Materiality and Structure

Glass facades play a central role in the design, contributing to an overall feeling of lightness. These facades are made possible by embedding aluminum frames into the walls and slabs. This approach allows the glass surfaces to dominate, creating a continuous connection to the outside world. The materials used not only enhance visual appeal but also support durability, ensuring that the new construction works with the existing barn.

Climate Responsiveness

The design considers climate carefully. Roof extensions provide shade from direct sunlight in the summer, helping to keep the interior comfortable. During winter, sunlight is allowed to enter and warm the spaces inside. The stone barn also helps manage light, filtering harsh rays and creating a gentle, welcoming atmosphere throughout the year.

Aesthetic Detail

The building is supported by four vertical elements that give the impression of floating above the stone barn. This detail adds to the overall feeling of lightness. It highlights the harmony between the two structures. Each design choice reflects a careful focus on both form and function, reinforcing the connection between the guest house and its historical context. The result is a thoughtful blend of modernity and tradition.

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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

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