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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 Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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