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Living Roof Lodge with Timber Canopy and Biomass Heating

Authors:
Chris Green, Elina Kivilande
Living Roof Lodge with Timber Canopy and Biomass Heating
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Constructed with a living roof and elevated timber canopy, the lodge utilizes biomass heating to create a sustainable retreat that encourages communal living and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a living roof to enhance insulation and biodiversity.
02
Features an elevated timber canopy for natural ventilation and aesthetics.
03
Incorporates biomass heating systems for reduced carbon footprint.
04
Utilizes greywater recycling to support sustainable water management.
05
Designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural landscape.

Maaja - Lodge is situated in a landscape filled with meadows, forests, and water. The lodge aims to enhance the connection between visitors and nature while promoting communal living and wellness. The design brings together indoor and outdoor spaces, creating an experience that prioritizes sustainability and healthy living.

Concept and Functionality

At the heart of Maaja - Lodge is the idea of fostering social interaction and relaxation. The Ozolini Tea Trail is an important feature of the project. It includes various spaces such as a trail hub, communal lounge, kitchen and dining areas, yoga rooms, tea workshops, accommodation, and storage. Each space is designed to cater to both individual needs and community activities, providing visitors with a rich experience.

Sustainability Features

The lodge emphasizes sustainability by incorporating energy-efficient systems. The living roof provides insulation while supporting local wildlife. Canopy overhangs help reduce the heat from the sun, and triple-glazed windows enhance energy efficiency throughout the building. Additional energy systems like biomass stoves, photovoltaic panels, and air source pumps further decrease reliance on non-renewable energy sources, contributing to environmentally responsible practices.

Structural Elements and Site Design

Accommodation options are designed for comfort and practicality. Relaxation areas are arranged to allow guests to unwind after exploring the outdoors. The communal kitchen and dining areas promote shared meals, encouraging social connections. Structural features such as stoves with seating foster interaction. Sunken areas provide natural cooling, and elevated parts of the lodge utilize local timber for building materials.

The site design strengthens the lodge's relationship with its environment through platforms above water levels, offering guests pleasant views. Mirrors integrated into the design reflect surrounding vegetation, expanding the visual space and reinforcing the connection between the lodge and nature.

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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

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Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

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Final registration deadline 29 October 2026

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