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Indoor Garden and Triangular Roof Enhance Artistic Living by the Lake

Authors:
Liu Wei Nan, Liu Xiaohu
Indoor Garden and Triangular Roof Enhance Artistic Living by the Lake
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With a triangular roof and integrated indoor garden, this lakeside residence harmonizes artistic living and ecological sensitivity, offering both a studio and communal spaces for artists.
5 key facts about this project
01
Triangular roof design enhances visual connection with the landscape.
02
Extended roof elements provide resting spots for local bats.
03
Indoor garden serves as a greenhouse during winter months.
04
Wooden tiles add texture and align with local architectural traditions.
05
Steel framework allows for flexibility in interior space configurations.

The Painters’ Lake House, located in Latvia, is designed to create an inspiring space for artists. Set against the tranquility of a lakeside backdrop, the residence combines workspaces and living areas. This integration allows for personal artistic exploration as well as opportunities for social engagement. The design emphasizes a connection with nature, enhancing the overall experience for its inhabitants.

Architectural Concept

The layout consists of key areas including an artist studio, a living room, a gallery, parking, residential units, and a storage/carpentry workshop. By carefully planning these spaces, the design enhances movement and promotes views of the lake, establishing a strong relationship with the surrounding landscape. The structure balances areas for focused work and relaxation, reflecting the diverse needs of artists.

Materials and Structure

Influenced by traditional Latvian architecture, the design features a prominent triangular roof shape. This detail respects local cultural context while creating a visual connection with nature. The roof incorporates wooden tiles, which not only add texture but also consider the practical aspects of durability and maintenance in Latvia’s climate. At its core, the building uses steel beams and columns that are enclosed in wood, yielding a sturdy structure. This approach allows flexibility in the interior spaces, accommodating various artistic practices.

Interior Spaces

The artist studio serves as a dedicated workspace, designed to foster concentration and creativity. Next to it is a living area intended for hosting visitors. This space takes advantage of wide views of the lake, enhancing its appeal. An indoor garden is part of the living space, acting as both a visual element and a greenhouse during winter. This connection to nature enriches the environment and supports the residents’ well-being.

Environmental Considerations

Extended roof elements are a unique feature, providing resting spots for bats and showcasing a commitment to ecological sustainability. This consideration highlights the project’s goal to blend construction with the local ecosystem. The result is a careful balance that respects the relationship between built and natural environments.

The Painters’ Lake House serves as a thoughtful example of how architecture can support artistic life while remaining attentive to its surroundings. It invites creativity and fosters inspiration with each carefully designed detail.

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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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Competition organisers

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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