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Parametric Timber Cabins with Herringbone Facades for Coastal Rest Stops

Author:
Jan Kattein
Parametric Timber Cabins with Herringbone Facades for Coastal Rest Stops
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With herringbone cladding and a pivoting facade that opens to breathtaking coastal views, these timber cabins provide sustainable shelter tailored for hikers along Latvia's historic Amber Road.
5 key facts about this project
01
Herringbone-patterned timber cladding enhances aesthetic appeal while reflecting local craftsmanship.
02
A pivoting facade design allows for flexible interaction with the surrounding landscape.
03
Cabins are elevated to minimize environmental impact and enhance drainage.
04
Interior berths maximize space efficiency, accommodating multiple visitors comfortably.
05
Sustainable materials sourced locally contribute to environmental sensitivity and cultural relevance.

### Overview
The Amber Road Cabins, located along Latvia’s Baltic coast, are designed to enhance outdoor experiences for hikers traversing the historic Amber Road. This ancient trading route showcases diverse landscapes, from lush forests to open beaches. The project aims to create a resting area that harmonizes contemporary architectural practices with the region’s rich cultural heritage, while providing a functional space for visitors to engage with the natural environment.

### Architectural Design
**Form and Structure**: The cabins feature a modern rustic aesthetic, utilizing large timber frames to provide expansive views of the coastline. A unique back wall design that swings open allows for both panoramic sightlines and natural ventilation. Elevated above ground, the cabins minimize their environmental footprint while establishing a lightness in form.

**Materiality**: The construction primarily employs locally sourced square-beam logs, promoting sustainability and aesthetic resonance with the surrounding landscape. Additional materials include treated softwood for structural integrity, plywood for interior finishes, insulated boards for thermal efficiency, and corrugated galvanized steel for durable roofing. The façade’s herringbone-patterned timber cladding reflects traditional Latvian craftsmanship, bridging historical context with contemporary design.

### User Experience
The interior layout of the cabins is optimized for functionality, featuring sleeping quarters arranged along a narrow footprint and utilizing vertical space with stacked berths to accommodate visitors efficiently. The design incorporates elements, such as a double-swing, to encourage interaction with the natural surroundings, fostering a sense of connection to the environment. The overall design enhances the hiking experience by providing comfortable shelter while promoting moments of rest and reflection in a tranquil setting.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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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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