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Geometric Trails and Modular Cabins in a Timber Retreat

Authors:
Carlos Vicente Rey, Johanna Cortes
Geometric Trails and Modular Cabins in a Timber Retreat
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Modular cabins elevated on steel piers complement a network of geometric trails made from wood mulch, creating a sustainable meditation retreat that integrates harmoniously with the Latvian forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular cabins allow for flexible relocation within the forest.
02
Trails are made from locally sourced wood mulch to minimize environmental impact.
03
Geometric shapes used in trails enhance navigation and meditative experience.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems are integrated for sustainable water usage.
05
Cabins are elevated on steel piers to preserve soil and vegetation.

The project is situated in the serene woods of Latvia and focuses on creating a space for meditation. It encourages users to connect deeply with nature while providing an escape from the hustle of daily life. The design allows individuals to experience mindfulness in a carefully considered environment that emphasizes tranquility and reflection.

Trail System
A network of trails links the Ozolini household to Lake Bezdibené. These paths are designed to have minimal impact on the natural landscape, utilizing wood mulch made from fallen branches and logs. This choice ensures the trails blend into the surrounding environment. They serve both as functional pathways and as tools for exploration, inviting users to engage with the forest and its beauty.

Geometric Identity
Each trail features geometric shapes such as circles and triangles that help distinguish the paths. These shapes also connect to meditative principles of balance and harmony. By incorporating these forms, the design not only aids orientation but also enhances the user experience, fostering contemplation through the visuals of the environment.

Cabin Design
The cabins are modular, allowing for easy assembly and customization on-site. This approach reduces environmental impact and offers flexibility in how the cabins are arranged in the landscape. Designed as temporary homes, they encourage interaction between indoor spaces and the outdoors. Elevated on steel helical piers, the cabins protect the ground below, preserving the natural soil and vegetation.

Environmental Sustainability
Sustainability is a key element of the design. Rainwater harvesting systems capture water for use, while solar panels generate energy to meet basic needs. A dry toilet solution supports waste management and composting efforts. Local timber is selected for construction, connecting the cabins to the area and reducing transportation impacts.

The overall layout guides users through a series of phases in their meditation journey. From disconnecting from external distractions to achieving mental clarity, each step is strategically planned to deepen the connection with the forest and enhance the meditative experience. As visitors move through this landscape, they engage not only with the physical structures but also with the peaceful environment surrounding them.

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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.

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Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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