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Large Windows and Wood Slats Enhance Artistry in Lakefront Residence

Author:
Parallel Architects
Large Windows and Wood Slats Enhance Artistry in Lakefront Residence
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Large windows and wood slats define a residence that prioritizes natural light and artistic expression, designed to harmonize with its lakeside location while providing comfortable living for families.
5 key facts about this project
01
Large windows provide unobstructed views of the lake while maximizing daylight.
02
The painter's workshop is strategically positioned for ideal light and inspiration.
03
Wood slat assemblies create a distinctive texture on the façade.
04
A shared terrace promotes social interaction while maintaining privacy for families.
05
The design draws on traditional Latvian architectural elements for regional harmony.

Painters’ Lake House is located in the Latvian countryside, surrounded by beautiful landscapes that reflect the region's rich architectural history. The design focuses on sustainability while meeting the needs of its residents. It balances private and shared spaces, creating an environment that supports individual privacy while encouraging community interaction.

Layout Design

The architecture features two distinct living areas linked by a shared terrace. This layout promotes easy movement through the space and allows for both personal retreat and communal gatherings. Key areas include the kitchen, living and dining rooms, and private bedrooms. Each zone is crafted to maximize usability while responding to the dynamics of family life.

Workshop Integration

At the heart of the design is the painter's workshop, positioned strategically between the house and the lake. This location ensures plenty of natural light and stunning views, enhancing the space's functionality for artistic pursuits. The workshop is open and airy, promoting creativity and allowing residents to connect with both their work and their surroundings.

Natural Light and Aesthetics

Large windows dominate the northern façade, filling the interior with natural light and offering beautiful lake views. This thoughtful design choice contributes to energy efficiency, reducing dependence on artificial light. The house embraces a simple aesthetic, inspired by traditional Latvian architecture. This design ensures that the structure blends well with the surrounding landscape, emphasizing harmony between the built environment and nature.

Material Composition

A range of materials is used throughout the construction, including wood slat assemblies and metal roofing. Each material is chosen for its durability and functionality while keeping in mind the local context. The careful selection supports a warm, inviting atmosphere. Natural wood finishes contribute to the overall aesthetic, while large windows enhance the sense of openness, allowing the house to connect with the lush greenery outside.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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