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Grass Roof Retreat Crafted with Antiseptic Wood and Concrete Foundations Near Serene Lake

Authors:
Dean Li, XU LI, WEI LI
Grass Roof Retreat Crafted with Antiseptic Wood and Concrete Foundations Near Serene Lake

Project in-detail

Nestled beneath a lush grass roof, the retreat’s seamless blend of antiseptic wood and concrete elements creates an inspiring habitat for artists seeking a tranquil environment by the lake.
5 key facts about this project
01
The grass roof contributes to natural insulation while promoting local biodiversity.
02
Hydrophilic platforms extend towards the lake, encouraging direct engagement with the water.
03
Movable partitions throughout the interior allow for adaptable living and working spaces.
04
Constructed using locally sourced antiseptic wood, enhancing durability and sustainability.
05
The vertical composition of the structure maximizes natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
The Painter's Lake House is an exemplary architectural project designed specifically for artists, set within the tranquil landscapes of Latvia. This project represents a harmonious blending of living and creative environments, prioritizing connection to nature while fostering interaction amongst its inhabitants. The design represents a thoughtful consideration of both functionality and aesthetics, aiming to create a space that inspires creativity and collaboration.

Functionally, the Painter's Lake House accommodates various activities linked to artistic pursuits, offering dedicated studios alongside living spaces. This duality allows artists to seamlessly transition between work and leisure, embodying an integrated lifestyle that thrives on creativity. The architecture plays a significant role in enhancing the experience of both the artists and the surrounding environment.

The design features a unique arrangement of interconnected structures that vary in height and functionality. This vertical composition not only provides dynamic views of the surrounding landscape, but it also allows for the integration of outdoor terraces and balconies that invite occupants to engage with the natural surroundings. The living quarters are designed for flexibility, with movable partitions that easily adapt according to the needs of the space. This adaptability is crucial for artists who may require different configurations for their work or communal gatherings.

The material choice for this project reflects a commitment to sustainability and durability. Outdoor antiseptic wood is used extensively for its resistance to weathering, while indoor wooden flooring provides warmth within the living areas. The incorporation of a grass roof serves a dual purpose, enhancing insulation and allowing the building to blend into its natural surroundings, thus minimizing its visual impact on the landscape. A concrete foundation provides necessary stability, coupled with metal connectors that add structural integrity to the interconnected units.

One of the standout features of the Painter's Lake House is the hydrophilic platforms that extend towards the lake, encouraging interaction with the water and allowing for recreational opportunities. This thoughtful element enhances the overall experience of the space, transforming it into more than just a residence—it's a place of inspiration and engagement with nature.

A focus on natural light and air circulation is evident throughout the design. Large windows and open layouts invite the outdoors in, fostering an atmosphere that promotes well-being and creativity. The use of local materials not only connects the project to its surroundings but also aligns with broader ecological practices, making a statement about sustainable architecture in contemporary contexts.

The uniqueness of the Painter's Lake House lies in its ability to serve dual purposes—providing artists with dedicated creative spaces while functioning as a comfortable and inviting home. This project highlights the importance of design thinking in creating environments that are adaptable, sustainable, and conducive to personal growth.

For those interested in gaining deeper insights into this architectural endeavor, exploration of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will shed light on the innovative ideas that underpin this project. The Painter's Lake House stands as a testament to the potential of architecture to create spaces that nurture creativity, connection, and community.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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