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Mushroom-Inspired Cabins Featuring Monocoque Timber Structures and Green Roofs Embracing the Latvian Landscape

Authors:
Tamim Negm, Krista Skujina
Mushroom-Inspired Cabins Featuring Monocoque Timber Structures and Green Roofs Embracing the Latvian Landscape

Project in-detail

Crafted with a unique mushroom-inspired shape and sustainable monocoque timber structure, the cabins seamlessly blend into the Latvian landscape while providing a tranquil retreat for nature enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabins feature a unique mushroom-inspired silhouette that seamlessly integrates with the landscape.
02
Constructed using cross-laminated timber panels, the design provides exceptional durability and thermal efficiency.
03
Roof gardens planted with native flora contribute to biodiversity and enhance insulation for the cabins.
04
The use of charred wooden shingles not only adds a distinct aesthetic but also improves weather resistance.
05
A communal hub garden fosters social interaction among visitors, promoting a sense of community in the natural setting.
The Champignon Caramélisé project is an architectural exploration that embodies the integration of built environments with natural landscapes. Located in Latvia, this project reflects an ongoing dialogue between human habitation and the environment, inspired by the form and cultural significance of mushrooms. The design serves a functional purpose, providing residential cabins that cater to visitors seeking a deeper connection with nature. The concept invites occupants to immerse themselves in the surrounding landscape, through a thoughtful blend of architecture and ecological awareness.

At its core, this project represents a commitment to sustainability and the cultural resonance of local practices. The cabins, with their unique mushroom-inspired morphology, merge seamlessly with the Latvian landscape, creating spaces that feel both inviting and organic. The structure makes effective use of a double monocoque timber frame, allowing for a lightweight yet sturdy design that provides durability and flexibility. This approach to materiality not only enhances the visual appeal of the cabins but also reinforces their environmental integrity.

Each cabin is equipped with multifunctional terraces and expansive sliding glass windows that blur the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces. Such design techniques ensure that natural light floods the interiors while providing uninterrupted views of the surrounding meadows and forests. The emphasis on open spaces resonates with a lifestyle that cherishes nature, encouraging occupants to engage with their environment.

In terms of functional layout, the project features essential amenities designed around the needs of contemporary living while maintaining minimal ecological impact. The spatial organization prioritizes comfort and accessibility, with thoughtfully designed communal areas that enhance social interaction among visitors. The central hub garden in each cabin acts as a focal point for shared experiences, reinforcing the project's dedication to community building.

A distinctive characteristic of the Champignon Caramélisé project is its landscape integration. The careful positioning of cabins ensures that each unit enjoys unobstructed vistas, making the most of Latvia's natural beauty. Pathways meander through wildflower-filled fields, inviting exploration and interaction with the environment. The landscape not only serves as a backdrop but becomes an essential aspect of the occupants' experience, connecting them to the rhythm of nature.

The design also addresses sustainability through the use of local materials and the installation of roof gardens. These gardens serve a dual purpose: providing insulation and enhancing biodiversity by attracting various forms of local wildlife. This reflects a broader architectural strategy that seeks to harmonize human living spaces with ecological systems.

Moreover, the project instills a sense of cultural pride by incorporating local traditions, particularly the practice of mushroom foraging. This cultural element is significant, as it reinforces the connection between the architecture and its geographical context while celebrating the rich natural resources available in the area.

The unique design approaches evident in the Champignon Caramélisé project challenge traditional architectural practices by promoting a cohesive relationship between form and function, nature and habitation. The use of contemporary materials juxtaposed with traditional concepts showcases the versatility of modern architecture to adapt and reflect local identities while ensuring environmental responsibility.

To gain a deeper understanding of this innovative project, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, interested readers are encouraged to explore the comprehensive project presentation. Engaging with these aspects will provide a clearer insight into the architectural ideas and overall vision that drive the Champignon Caramélisé project.
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MICROHOME
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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