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Geometric Timber Shelter Featuring Solar Integration and Rainwater Collection

Authors:
Austen Goodman, Stephany Knize
Geometric Timber Shelter Featuring Solar Integration and Rainwater Collection

Project in-detail

Constructed with geometric precision from local timber and integrated with solar panels and rainwater systems, the cabin serves as a sustainable shelter for hikers along the historic Amber Road.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using local cross-laminated timber panels to minimize environmental impact.
02
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while integrating with the natural landscape.
03
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize space and reinforce stability.
04
Incorporates a rainwater collection system for sustainable resource management.
05
Large glass openings provide panoramic views and enhance natural lighting throughout the cabin.

### Overview
The Amber Road Trekking Cabin is located along the historic Amber Road in Latvia, serving as a shelter for hikers exploring the region's cultural and natural landscapes. The design prioritizes sustainability and practicality, aiming for an integration of built form with the surrounding environment. The guiding intent is to create a functional space that enhances the user experience while minimizing ecological impact.

### Spatial Strategy and Architectural Elements
The structure features a distinctive angular form inspired by amber stones, ensuring a visual connection to the landscape. The sloping roofs facilitate rainwater collection, a critical aspect of the architectural strategy that also supports resilience against environmental conditions. The interior layout is optimized for space efficiency, incorporating multi-functional areas such as a living room and kitchen, fold-out beds, and innovative bathroom design focused on water conservation. Large floor-to-ceiling windows enhance natural light and provide expansive views, while operable windows and shading devices facilitate user-controlled light modulation.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Strategic material choices reflect a commitment to sustainability. Locally sourced wood, prefabricated panels, and glass are employed to achieve aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency. Integrated solar panels and rainwater collection systems underscore the cabin's self-sufficiency. These elements not only enhance its environmental performance but also support the local economy by utilizing readily available resources. The combination of prefabricated components with onsite assembly exemplifies modern construction practices while reducing waste and construction time.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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