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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

Project in-detail

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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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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