Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Harmonic Living Space with Straw and Reed Elements

Authors:
Kiran Kc, Aarati Baral
Harmonic Living Space with Straw and Reed Elements
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
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.

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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
new
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026
new
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 30 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026
MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Media, partners and clients

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