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Forest Integration with Polycarbonate Walls and Local Wood Elements

Authors:
André Esteves, Charlotte Costa
Forest Integration with Polycarbonate Walls and Local Wood Elements
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With its unique "nijiriguchi" entrance and integration of polycarbonate walls alongside local wood materials, the design redefines the guest experience in eco-tourism settings within the Latvian forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
The entrance features a "nijiriguchi,” inspired by traditional Japanese tea houses.
02
Polycarbonate walls enhance natural light and visual connection to the forest.
03
The layout promotes communal interaction across diverse functional areas.
04
Local wood materials support sustainability and regional economic growth.
05
A dedicated workshop area facilitates hands-on eco-tourism activities.

The Teamakers Guest House is situated in the forests of Latvia and serves as an eco-tourism retreat that emphasizes a strong connection to nature. The design draws inspiration from local traditional architecture, particularly the barn, maintaining its character while adapting it for modern use. This project focuses on sustainability and encourages community interaction, creating a welcoming space for visitors who wish to explore both the natural environment and the rich local culture.

Architectural Concept

The design revolves around preserving the historical context of the site while incorporating essential modern functions. Open spaces are prioritized, allowing for easy movement and connections between various areas, including a workshop, conceptual room, reception area, store, and guest accommodations. This layout not only aids navigation but also enhances social engagement among visitors.



Material Selection

Local materials play a key role in the construction, with an emphasis on wood and wood composites. These choices support sustainability goals by reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Additionally, using polycarbonate walls in certain areas promotes daylight entry, enriching the interior atmosphere while connecting spaces visually.



Spatial Integration

A notable feature of the design is the corridor that links indoor spaces with the surrounding woods. This corridor helps maintain natural light flow and deepens the connection between guests and the landscape. It allows visitors to transition easily between indoor comforts and outdoor experiences.



Cultural Reference

One interesting element is the entrance to the conceptual room, called "nijiriguchi," which reflects influences from traditional Japanese tea house design. A fountain is included at the entrance, inviting guests to pause and wash their hands before entering. This design detail encourages a moment of reflection, enhancing the overall visitor experience and establishing a sense of mindfulness before stepping into the main interior.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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