Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Floating Sauna and Charred Wooden Shingles in a Rural Timber Retreat

Authors:
Paz Becerra, Constanza Cerda, Rodrigo Hernandez
Floating Sauna and Charred Wooden Shingles in a Rural Timber Retreat

Project in-detail

Centered around a floating sauna and constructed with charred wooden shingles, the retreat in rural Latvia emphasizes sustainability and community engagement while offering a venue for immersive cultural experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural performance while minimizing environmental impact.
03
Features a floating sauna designed to integrate seamlessly with the natural landscape and water elements.
04
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to create open, light-filled spaces that engage with the surrounding environment.
05
Encourages community interaction through shared outdoor spaces and facilities designed for cultural activities.

The Latvian Rural Experience project encapsulates a thoughtful architectural response to the need for engaging with rural Latvian culture and landscape. This design consists of a series of interrelated cabins, each embodying a synthesis of traditional rural architecture and contemporary functional requirements. Positioned within Latvia's picturesque countryside, the project serves to reconnect visitors with the local environment and heritage through immersive experiences.

The primary function of this architecture is to provide accommodation while promoting cultural exchange and community engagement. Visitors can participate in activities connected to local agricultural practices, such as fishing and vegetable harvesting, thereby gaining insights into the rural lifestyle. The layout is purposefully designed to foster interaction, with communal spaces and pathways that encourage socialization and engagement with the surrounding landscape.

The architectural design includes several notable features that distinguish this project from others. The cabins utilize an eclectic mix of materials, primarily focusing on local timber, glass, steel, and stone. This choice not only pays homage to the traditional construction methods prevalent in the region but also ensures that the buildings harmonize with the environment. The use of large windows made from glass allows natural light to permeate the interiors, directly connecting occupants with breathtaking views of the countryside.

Another distinguishing aspect of the project is the integration of cultural elements into the design. Each cabin is equipped with spaces for community activities, such as a shared outdoor fireplace and gathering areas. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the site but also invites interaction among visitors and locals, fostering a sense of community. The floating sauna and fishing docks further enrich the experience, enabling visitors to engage directly with the natural setting.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of the design philosophy of the Latvian Rural Experience project. By employing local materials and minimizing the environmental footprint of the buildings, the project emphasizes ecological responsibility. Strategies such as rainwater harvesting and possible solar energy integration exemplify this commitment to sustainability.

The design outcomes align with architectural trends that emphasize experiential learning and integration with nature. This project aims to revitalize the rural economy by attracting visitors, providing opportunities for local artisans and farmers, and fostering a deeper understanding of Latvia's cultural landscape.

For further insights, readers are encouraged to explore architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas associated with the Latvian Rural Experience. These resources can provide a comprehensive overview of the architectural intent and details.

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