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Gabled Roofs Embracing Natural Light in Eco-Friendly Lodgings

Authors:
Jieun Kim, Ji Won Song, Chang Hyun Joo
Gabled Roofs Embracing Natural Light in Eco-Friendly Lodgings
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Gabled roofs harmonize with the surrounding forest, maximizing natural light and promoting sustainability in contemporary lodgings designed for eco-tourism in Skrunda, Latvia.
5 key facts about this project
01
Gabled roofs are designed to mimic mountain forms, enhancing the connection to the natural landscape.
02
Visitor accommodations feature large south-facing windows that optimize sunlight and forest views.
03
Community spaces encourage social interaction, fostering a sense of belonging among guests.
04
The layout reflects the flow of the nearby Venta River, promoting harmony with the site's topography.
05
Natural materials are used throughout to support eco-friendly practices and sustainability.

The Caramel Shores traveler’s room project is located in the Latvian village of Skrunda, which has a deep historical background as the secret city of the former Soviet Union. Designed as eco-friendly accommodation for tourists, the project aims to blend contemporary architecture with local traditions. The design concept focuses on creating connections between visitors and the surrounding landscape, prioritizing environmental aspects in its layout and overall vision.

Design Concept
The layout of the traveler rooms is inspired by the nearby Venta River. Pathways mimic the flow of the river, encouraging a feeling of harmony with the natural terrain. This design aids in enhancing the experience of exploring nature and appreciating the unique environment of Skrunda. The overall goal is to make visitors feel as though they are walking through a forest, engaging with both the architecture and the landscape.

Architectural Features
The project prominently features gabled roofs, which are characteristic of traditional Latvian architecture. These roofs provide a unified appearance for the structures while evoking the shapes of mountains in the background. The use of these traditional elements alongside modern designs results in a structure that respects the local heritage and meets contemporary needs.

Spatial Organization
Social interaction plays a key role in the project's design. Spaces such as the Entrance Square and Festival Stage are strategically placed to encourage guests to come together and engage with one another. The traveler rooms are designed with large windows that face south, allowing for ample natural light and providing views of the forest. This approach enhances the experience of being close to nature.

Environmental Considerations
Sustainability is a central focus throughout the design. Natural light and ventilation are integrated into the traveler rooms, promoting energy efficiency and comfort for the guests. Outdoor features, such as BBQ areas and pathways leading to amenities like a Traditional Sauna, invite visitors to connect with the local environment. These elements enhance the overall experience and encourage community interaction.

The careful layout and natural shape of the roofs, along with the thoughtful positioning of communal spaces, create a design that aligns well with its landscape, fostering an inviting atmosphere enjoyed by travelers seeking both comfort and a connection to nature.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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