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Pine Wood Cabins Embracing Nature with Inverted Pyramid Forms

Author:
Ramsey Robinson
Pine Wood Cabins Embracing Nature with Inverted Pyramid Forms

Project in-detail

Incorporating an inverted pyramid design and utilizing local pine wood, the retreat redefines cabin living by prioritizing privacy and connection to nature, creating an enriching communal experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inverted pyramid shape maximizes natural light and views.
02
Cabins strategically positioned for privacy while promoting community.
03
Constructed entirely from locally sourced pine wood.
04
Sauna design emphasizes spatial containment and direct river views.
05
Integrated communal spaces enhance social interaction among guests.

The "Joy Pyramid," developed by Caramel Shores, is located in the scenic landscape of Latvia. The design brings together modern forms and traditional elements of Latvian culture. The retreat functions as a space for visitors to enjoy nature while offering a sense of community and privacy. The idea behind it emphasizes a strong connection with the environment through thoughtful architecture.

Inverted Pyramid Structure

The design features an inverted pyramid shape that draws inspiration from traditional Latvian cottages. This form opens the space, allowing natural light to enter and providing wide views of the surroundings. The careful placement of the structure enhances its visibility in the landscape and creates a bright, inviting environment for those inside.

Privacy and Community

The layout prioritizes privacy, reflecting important aspects of Latvian culture. Each cabin is positioned to give visitors a sense of seclusion while still encouraging social interaction in shared areas. Guests can retreat to their personal spaces, yet experience community life through larger gathering spaces, creating a balanced environment.

Material Integration

The project uses local materials, specifically pine wood for roofs, shingles, and decks. This choice connects the buildings to the local landscape and reinforces a sense of place. Using these materials supports environmental sustainability and aligns with the overall design philosophy that seeks to harmonize the architecture with its natural surroundings.

The sauna features a more enclosed design, providing a contrast to the open nature of the cabins. It incorporates carefully placed windows that allow specific views of the area, enhancing the experience of relaxation and warmth. These details add to the overall narrative of how nature and built environments can coexist and enhance each other.

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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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