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Harmonic Living Space with Straw and Reed Elements

Authors:
Kiran Kc, Aarati Baral
Harmonic Living Space with Straw and Reed Elements

Project in-detail

Constructed with traditional straw and reeds, the residence offers a harmonious living space that fosters creativity and connection to the tranquil lakeside landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced straw and reeds.
02
Features a symmetrical layout that accommodates two artist families.
03
Integrates seamlessly with the lakeside landscape.
04
Designed to foster both individual creativity and communal engagement.
05
Includes a floating wooden deck that enhances the indoor-outdoor connection.

The artist's residence is located along the tranquil lakeside of Latvia and serves as a refuge for creativity and artistic practice. The design is heavily influenced by the concept of "himmeli," a traditional ornament from the Baltic region that signifies order, harmony, and unity. This approach emphasizes the connection between different elements of the structure, creating an environment that supports both living and working for artists.

Spatial Organization

The residence consists of two symmetrical units, specifically designed for two artist families. Each unit offers both private areas and shared spaces, allowing for personal expression while encouraging collaboration. This thoughtful arrangement promotes interaction without sacrificing solitude, vital for the artistic process.

Connection to Nature

A key feature of the design is the link to the surrounding landscape. The architecture invites the outside in, allowing natural light and views of the lake to enhance the indoor environment. This relationship with nature enriches the living experience, making it a fundamental aspect of daily life in the residence.

Materiality

Traditional materials are a notable aspect of the design, specifically straw and reeds. These materials reflect the cultural background of the area and serve practical functions in construction. They add an organic touch to the structure, emphasizing the bond between the building and its natural setting while adhering to sustainable practices.

Intentional Sanctuary

The residence is crafted as a place of solace, where living and creating coexist harmoniously. The design creates a clear boundary from the distractions of modern life, enhancing focus and creativity. This careful planning shapes an environment filled with inspiration.

One striking detail is the floating wooden deck that encircles the units, providing a transitional space that blends the indoors with the outdoors, facilitating a deeper connection with the landscape and enriching the daily experience of the residents.

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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

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