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Hexagonal Cabins With Polycarbonate Roofs Integrating Sustainable Timber Construction Along Latvia's Trekking Routes

Authors:
Paula Andrea Riveros Gamboa, Yurley Patricia Urrea Castellanos, Paula Alejandra Solarte Bautista
Hexagonal Cabins With Polycarbonate Roofs Integrating Sustainable Timber Construction Along Latvia's Trekking Routes

Project in-detail

Constructed with hexagonal forms and polycarbonate roofs, these cabins utilize sustainable timber to provide essential shelter along Latvia's extensive trekking routes.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with OSB, the cabins emphasize sustainable building practices by using engineered wood.
02
Large polycarbonate windows enhance natural light and provide expansive views of the surrounding landscape.
03
The hexagonal design allows for efficient space utilization while integrating seamlessly with the terrain.
04
Manual water capture systems promote eco-friendly practices and resource management for users.
05
Shared communal spaces foster social interaction among trekkers while preserving privacy in sleeping areas.

### Overview

Located along a 530 km trekking route in Latvia, the project consists of twelve cabins strategically distributed every 44 km, providing rest and shelter for hikers. The design aims to enhance the trekking experience while integrating with the surrounding landscape and reflecting local cultural elements. The geometric forms of the cabins draw inspiration from amber, a significant regional component, resulting in a distinct architectural language that harmonizes with the natural environment.

### Spatial Strategy

The cabins are organized into three designated zones: public, private, and service areas. The public area serves as a communal space for dining and socializing, fostering interaction among trekkers. Each cabin features private sleeping quarters to ensure a restful experience and a service area equipped with functional amenities such as showers and kitchens. The orientation and large windows of the cabins provide expansive views of the Baltic Sea and surrounding forests, reinforcing the connection between the built structures and their natural context.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The project emphasizes sustainable building practices through the careful selection of materials. Oriented Strand Board (OSB) serves as the primary structural component, providing stability while adhering to eco-friendly standards. Roof and window structures utilize lightweight polycarbonate, offering transparency and effective insulation. The design also incorporates stone in foundation elements to enhance durability and galvanized steel in gutters and chimneys for weather resistance. Innovative systems for water capture and waste management minimize environmental impact, while features such as adjustable windows improve user interaction with the environment.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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

Enter an open architecture
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