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Linden Cabins with Biodegradable Insulation Along the River

Authors:
Mekhroz Umedov, Mariia Abramova
Linden Cabins with Biodegradable Insulation Along the River
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Constructed from locally sourced linden and designed with biodegradable insulation, these riverfront cabins offer a sustainable retreat that harmonizes with Latvia's natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from local linden wood, enhancing sustainability.
02
Each cabin features a mezzanine level for efficient use of space.
03
Private terraces extend living areas outdoors, connecting with nature.
04
Designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring ease of movement for all users.
05
Includes a sauna, emphasizing traditional Latvian cultural practices.

The Caramel House project encapsulates the spirit of Latvian culture and its stunning natural backdrop. Located beside a peaceful river, five individual cabins are arranged to provide guests with unobstructed views of the landscape. Each cabin is designed to accommodate 2-4 people, featuring essential amenities such as a mini kitchen and a mezzanine level. This layout enhances both comfort and functionality, allowing guests to feel connected to the surroundings.

Design Concept and Layout

The design focuses on creating a balance between indoor and outdoor living, encouraging guests to engage with nature. The entrance leads into a common area where visitors find a wardrobe and storage for luggage, followed by a bathroom equipped with a shower. A kitchen area supports shared meals and gatherings, and private terraces extend the living space outdoors. Mezzanine levels offer additional sleeping arrangements, maximizing the space while maintaining a sense of privacy.

Accessibility and Spatial Efficiency

Accessibility is a key aspect of the design, with careful consideration given to people with disabilities. Pathways are designed with ramps for easier movement. Sleeping areas on the ground floor help accommodate various needs, reflecting a commitment to inclusive design.

Material Selection and Sustainability

Sustainability is central to the building's materials. The cabins make use of locally sourced wood, which reflects the region's architectural heritage. A wooden frame with a metal pile foundation minimizes disturbance to the natural terrain. Durable materials are chosen to ensure the longevity of the structure, promoting environmental responsibility throughout the design.

Cultural Integration and Landscaping

Cultural references play an important role in the overall design. The landscaping integrates local symbols such as linden trees, field daisies, and cornflowers, enhancing the visual identity and connection to Latvia. Including a sauna within the project highlights traditional practices, reinforcing the relationship between modern living and cultural heritage.

Large windows fill the cabins with natural light, creating a warm atmosphere while framing views of the river. This design choice fosters a strong connection between the interior spaces and the natural landscape, inviting the elements of nature inside.

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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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