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Guest House Emphasizing Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles for Harmonious Natural Integration

Author:
Lee Yeon hee

Project in-detail

Nestled in the serene Latvian countryside, this guest house uniquely blends cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles to create a welcoming retreat that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while fostering community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The use of cross-laminated timber panels allows for rapid assembly while enhancing structural stability and sustainability.
02
Charred wooden shingles not only provide a distinctive aesthetic but also offer enhanced weather resistance and longevity.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes interior space and enhances natural light, creating a unique spatial experience for guests.
04
The building's layout incorporates skip floors, facilitating fluid movement between levels and fostering connectivity among various communal areas.
05
Extensive landscaping around the guest house is designed to blend seamlessly with local vegetation, further integrating the structure into its natural environment.
The Teamakers Guest House project represents a well-considered approach to architecture, thoughtfully designed to integrate with its natural surroundings in the rural landscape of Latvia. This architectural endeavor serves a dual purpose: it functions as a welcoming accommodation for visitors seeking respite in a tranquil environment, while also embodying the essence of communal interaction and individual reflection. The design aims to capture the beauty and serenity of the surrounding environment, allowing guests to experience and appreciate the local flora and fauna without compromising comfort.

Central to the project's concept is the emphasis on natural integration. The architecture responds to the landscape by positioning the building to maximize views and natural light, facilitating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. The extensive use of large windows ensures that each room is bathed in natural light throughout the day, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. This deliberate connection with the outdoors underscores the project's overall intent to promote relaxation and mindfulness among its occupants.

The layout of the guest house features a thoughtful organization of spaces, including both private areas for rest and communal zones designed for social interaction. Guest rooms are designed with personal privacy in mind, yet incorporate large glass walls that allow for stunning vistas of the external environment. This approach encourages guests to engage with nature while also providing a personal retreat. Meanwhile, communal spaces foster a sense of community, enabling visitors to share experiences and ideas in a relaxed setting.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project, especially in the selection of materials. The architecture employs a combination of wood, concrete, glass, steel, and stone, reflecting both modern sensibilities and a deep respect for local traditions. The warm tones of wood provide a cozy contrast to the more industrial qualities of concrete and steel, while expansive glass panels contribute to a feeling of openness. This thoughtful materiality is not only aesthetically pleasing but also promotes sustainability, as many of the materials sourced have minimal environmental impact and blend harmoniously with the landscape.

One of the standout design features is the incorporation of skip floors. This innovative approach enhances spatial connectivity and allows for an engaging flow between different levels and spaces within the guest house. The design effectively encourages movement and interaction without sacrificing privacy, creating a balanced environment that invites both communal gatherings and solitary reflection.

Attention to detail is paramount in this project. Elements such as oversized staircases, expertly crafted railings, and carefully considered lighting contribute to the overall ambiance of the guest house. These details are meticulously integrated into the architecture, reinforcing the overall design philosophy focused on comfort, relaxation, and user experience.

In summary, the Teamakers Guest House is a meaningful architectural project that embodies a harmonious relationship between built structure and natural surroundings. The design illustrates a commitment to creating spaces that not only serve practical functions but also enhance the overall experience of visitors. For those interested in delving deeper into this architectural masterpiece, exploring the architectural designs, plans, and sections will provide further insights into the thought processes and creative strategies employed throughout the project. We encourage you to examine these elements in detail for a comprehensive understanding of the architectural ideas that define this guest house.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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