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Hemp Concrete Cabin Embracing Latvian Heritage within a Vibrant Landscape

Author:
Antoni Grześkowiak
Hemp Concrete Cabin Embracing Latvian Heritage within a Vibrant Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed with hemp concrete and designed around the principles of Latvian traditions, the cabin reflects a seamless integration of sustainable practices within a rural setting intended for residential use.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily with hemp concrete sourced from local fields.
02
Incorporates distinct traditional Latvian architectural features, such as a gabled roof.
03
Designed with a warm core that enhances space utilization and comfort.
04
Integrates an efficient water management system to promote sustainability.
05
Features modular design elements for flexibility and adaptability in use.

The Green Cabin is situated in a subtropical landscape, carefully considering its surroundings while focusing on functionality and sustainability. Designed as a living space, the cabin connects traditional architectural forms with modern practices. This creates a structure that reflects the cultural essence of the area. The concept aims to integrate human living with agricultural activities, particularly through the growth of hemp, highlighting a relationship between the building and the landscape.

Design Concept

The cabin takes on a familiar house shape, featuring traditional proportions, wooden walls, and a gabled roof. These features tie the building to local architectural customs while allowing for a contemporary reinterpretation of classic designs. The overall intent is to harmonize with the natural setting while also establishing a unique presence.

Spatial Organization

The interior layout is uncomplicated, marked by functional areas that promote both comfort and interaction. The open living space works in tandem with private nooks for a kitchenette and wardrobe, allowing a mix of shared and personal areas. This arrangement enhances the overall experience, facilitating movement and socializing while ensuring privacy when necessary.

Materiality

Sustainable materials play an important role in the cabin's construction, particularly hemp concrete, which is made on-site. This element demonstrates a focus on reducing environmental footprints during building. Additionally, wooden panels, ceramic tiles, and a ventilated roof contribute to the cabin’s strength and energy efficiency, creating a structure that is friendly to both the planet and its residents.

Structural Details

Examining the cabin reveals careful attention to detail, where the primary wooden structure interacts with chosen materials to form a coherent unit. Features like an integrated water tank enhance the cabin's independence and efficient resource management. Each design aspect is intentionally developed, resulting in a functional and welcoming space, characterized by a warm core that encourages the enjoyment of light and spatial connections.

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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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