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Light-Channelling Huts with Cement Plaster and Rubblestone in a Coastal Retreat

Authors:
Bo Mi Lee, Jung Hyeon Choi, Sung Duk Yoon, Jeong Tae Kim
Light-Channelling Huts with Cement Plaster and Rubblestone in a Coastal Retreat
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With a roof design that channels natural light and a foundation of cement plaster and rubblestone, the retreat offers poets a serene environment to foster creativity amidst the coastal landscape of Pavilosta.
5 key facts about this project
01
Light is channeled into the huts through a unique roof duct that narrows toward the base.
02
Each hut is crafted for privacy while promoting community engagement through shared meditation areas.
03
Construction incorporates locally sourced rubblestone, enhancing connection to the coastal landscape.
04
The design strategically positions huts to utilize the natural backdrop of forest and open fields.
05
Durable materials like cement plaster contribute to the longevity of the structures in a coastal environment.

"My Little Forest" is located in Pavilosta, Latvia, and offers a creative space for poets. Surrounded by trees and an open field, the design aims to create a peaceful environment that encourages artistic expression away from city distractions. The concept centers around a series of individual huts designed for solitude and inspiration.

Site Integration

The layout effectively connects the independent huts with the natural landscape. The forest serves as a backdrop, while the field provides openness. Walking paths lead residents from hut to hut, promoting interaction with nature as well as between the poets themselves. This connection to the landscape supports the reflective nature of poetry.

Privacy and Community

Each hut offers private space for poets, allowing them to focus on their craft. The design finds a balance between solitude and community by including areas for meditation and shared experiences. Poets can withdraw for personal thought but also engage with others, fostering a supportive creative atmosphere.

Material Selection

Materials used in the project include cement plaster for walls, wood paneling, and vented parapet flashing. Rubblestone and plain concrete provide a robust foundation. These materials ensure durability while helping the structures fit into the natural surroundings, addressing the specific challenges of their coastal location.

Light Integration

A standout feature of the huts is their roof design, which channels natural light into the living spaces. The roof widens at the top and narrows toward the base, creating interesting light patterns indoors. This thoughtful approach enhances the atmosphere, making the interiors not just functional, but also inviting for creativity.

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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?

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