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Geothermal Gathering Spaces with Glazed Pergolas in a Forest Setting

Authors:
Cecilia Humphreys, David Humphreys
Geothermal Gathering Spaces with Glazed Pergolas in a Forest Setting

Project in-detail

Incorporating geothermal systems and a glazed pergola, this retreat harmonizes with its forest surroundings while providing multifunctional spaces for eco-tourism experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Geothermal heating system minimizes energy consumption.
02
Glazed pergola enhances indoor-outdoor connectivity.
03
Local wood planks used for upper siding promote regional identity.
04
Barn space allows for camping and product packaging.
05
Sleeping quarters include a gift shop for local artisans.

The Ozolini TEAMAKERS' Guest House is located in Latvia and is designed for eco-tourists seeking connection with nature. It emphasizes sustainability and a sense of community. The design concept focuses on creating strong, reliable structures that honor local customs while incorporating contemporary technology. The layout encourages interaction among visitors and highlights the natural beauty of the surrounding forest.

Architectural Concept

The design is based on multifunctional spaces that serve various purposes while respecting the environment. Key elements include a barn, sleeping quarters, and a Celebration Hall. These components are designed to support both individual activities and group gatherings. The phased construction approach integrates necessary facilities alongside natural settings, enhancing the experience of guests in this retreat.

Materials and Construction

Materials were chosen with care to ensure sustainability and durability. The roof is made of zinc or grey steel, providing strength and resistance to weather elements. The walls consist of a mix of coarse and smooth blocs, allowing for different textures while maintaining solid construction. Aluminum window frames contribute lightweight strength, enabling large openings that invite natural light. The upper siding features Latvian wood planks, reinforcing ties to local resources and culture.

Functional Spaces

The barn acts as a central area for gathering, sorting, and packaging local products, while also offering camping facilities for eco-tourists. This multifunctional space is important for creating interactions with the local ecosystem. The sleeping quarters include a gift shop that highlights regional artisans, allowing guests to connect with the community. A glazed pergola links the dormitory and barn and encourages visual engagement with the environment.

Design Details

The Celebration Hall is intended for group activities and supports social interaction among guests. This area can host a variety of events, enhancing the community aspect of the retreat. An emphasis on transparency and open spaces characterizes the design, bringing the natural surroundings into the interior. By blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor areas, the design promotes a comprehensive experience rooted in Latvia's rich natural landscape.

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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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