Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Glass Corner Studio with Reclaimed Hardwood in Latvia’s Natural Landscape

Authors:
Chirag Desai, Dhruv Gulabchande
Glass Corner Studio with Reclaimed Hardwood in Latvia’s Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

The artist's studio, characterized by its striking glass corner and use of reclaimed hardwood, harmonizes with the Latvian landscape to provide a serene retreat for creativity and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The studio features a glass corner that enhances natural light and provides expansive views.
02
Reclaimed hardwood flooring adds warmth and a sustainable element to the interiors.
03
The design integrates a rainwater harvesting system for efficient irrigation.
04
High ceilings with exposed beams reflect traditional Latvian building techniques.
05
A layout separates private areas from communal spaces to encourage both interaction and solitude.

The design located in the Latvian countryside skillfully merges private and public areas, creating a residence that serves both families and artists. The layout enhances the connection to nature, featuring elements that support interaction among inhabitants while also providing spaces for personal reflection and creativity.

Design and Layout

The building is arranged in two wings, with private spaces on the upper floor, including bedrooms and an artist's studio. This layout fosters intimacy and seclusion, allowing residents to retreat into their own areas while providing an environment conducive to artistic work.

Integration with Nature

Large windows and balconies are placed throughout the structure to maximize views of the surrounding forest and lake. The living and dining areas boast an open design that promotes this relationship with the outdoors. The result is a bright and inviting space where indoor and outdoor elements come together harmoniously.

Material Selection

Reclaimed hardwood is chosen for the flooring, bringing warmth and character to the interiors. In addition, wooden cabinetry and countertops in the kitchen create a tactile experience and emphasize a sustainable approach by using locally sourced resources.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is an important aspect of the design, reflected in the use of solar panels and wind turbines that promote ecological responsibility. A rainwater harvesting system further supports the garden by ensuring efficient irrigation.

The artist's studio features a glass corner that captures abundant natural light. It provides unobstructed views of the landscape, creating an inspiring environment that connects the artist with the tranquil beauty surrounding the residence.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy