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Parabolic Light Channel and Timber Warmth in a Baltic Community Guesthouse

Authors:
Thomas Peters, Aksel Kemahlioglu, Buse Serbetci
Parabolic Light Channel and Timber Warmth in a Baltic Community Guesthouse

Project in-detail

A parabolic light channel floods the communal spaces with natural light, while the combination of concrete and timber emphasizes warmth and sustainability in a guesthouse designed for tea manufacturing and community living.
5 key facts about this project
01
A parabolic light channel enhances natural illumination in communal areas.
02
The building retains the original barn structure, maintaining cultural heritage.
03
Dual-function ovens serve as heating sources and communal gathering points.
04
A greenhouse wall allows for herb cultivation and encourages natural ventilation.
05
Timber and concrete materials create a balance of warmth and durability.

The Ozolini Guest House is located in a region characterized by long and cold Baltic winters. The design combines the preservation of historical structures with contemporary living needs. Inspired by traditional Baltic farmhouses, known as namas, the building features a functional layout that accommodates tea manufacturing on the ground floor and living spaces above. The existing barn is retained in its original state, allowing for a respectful integration of past and present.

Architectural Concept

The layout reflects a strong focus on functionality and community interaction. A central feature is the dual-function oven system, akin to traditional black kitchens. This system serves as both a source of heat and a gathering point for residents, fostering social connections within the space. The central block greatly enhances thermal efficiency while also encouraging communal engagement among those who inhabit the guest house.

Materiality

Concrete and timber are the primary materials used throughout the structure. Concrete provides necessary support and durability, while timber adds warmth and texture to the interior. The relationship between the two materials enhances the overall design and improves the building's energy performance. This thoughtful material selection enriches the experience of those who live and work in the space.

Natural Light and Ventilation

Natural light and ventilation are integral aspects of the design. A parabolic light channel allows daylight to fill communal areas, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. The greenhouse wall also plays a crucial role, allowing fresh air to circulate. It enables the growth of herbs while seamlessly connecting the interior to the outdoors. This feature promotes a sense of well-being and fosters a connection to nature.

Spatial Dynamics

The design carefully balances public and private spaces to meet varying needs. Flexible partitions allow for adjustments in how spaces are used throughout the day. Curtains create fluid transitions between work areas and living quarters, offering privacy when necessary. This adaptability demonstrates a responsive approach to modern living within a rural context.

Natural light flows into the building through thoughtful window placement. The shifting light throughout the day adds to the experience. It creates a dynamic environment that evolves with the sun's path, inviting residents to engage with their surroundings in different ways.

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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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