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Hollowed Concrete Retreat with Panoramic Views for Artistic Families

Author:
Zidan Zhao
Hollowed Concrete Retreat with Panoramic Views for Artistic Families
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Hollowed concrete forms rise within a glass enclosure to create a tranquil retreat on the shores of Černostes Lake, providing artists and their families with dedicated spaces for creative work and communal living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Hollowed concrete blocks house distinct functional areas.
02
Large windows enhance natural light and lake views.
03
Separate entrance for bedrooms ensures privacy.
04
Double-height studio allows for diverse creative setups.
05
Carpentry shop accessible from the exterior promotes functionality.

The Černostes Lake House and Studio is located in Malta Parish, Latvia, and serves as a retreat for two painters and their families. Positioned along the shores of Černostes Lake, the building is designed to foster both relaxation and artistic creation. The concept focuses on integrating large concrete blocks within a glass enclosure, providing clear functional spaces without sacrificing an open feel.

Functionality and Layout

The design skillfully organizes essential areas such as bedrooms, a library, a carpentry shop, and stairwells. This organization allows for smooth transitions from one space to another while offering dedicated areas for work and leisure. In the center of the layout, the painter's studio stands out, accessed from the south. Its double-height space is filled with natural light, enhancing the experience of creating art. Large windows connect the interior to the beautiful landscape outside.

Residential Comfort

Four bedrooms are thoughtfully arranged within the main concrete block. These spaces are designed to offer privacy for both parents and children. The two-story configuration includes a separate entrance, allowing guests to come and go without disturbing others. Each bedroom has a bathroom, adding to the comfort and practicality of the retreat for short visits.

Community and Interaction

The communal space is situated at the left end of the structure and is designed to encourage family gatherings. This area features a large dining table that accommodates eight people, along with a full kitchen and a fireplace in the living room. The layout takes advantage of the views of the lake, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for shared meals and lively conversations.

Material Choices

Durable concrete is a significant material in the building, chosen for its ability to withstand the elements, with stainless steel windows enhancing its clarity. Warm wood elements in the interior contribute to a cozy ambiance. The mass of the concrete plays an important role in managing the internal environment, helping to keep the space comfortable by stabilizing temperature and humidity levels.

The exterior has an angular design that complements the regional landscape, blending modern features with familiar local traits. The large glass panes reflect the surroundings and create a visual dialogue between the building and nature, inviting both light and views into the living spaces.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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