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Polycarbonate Panels and Turf Roofs Enhancing Community Interaction in a Latvian Guesthouse

Author:
Peter Tso
Polycarbonate Panels and Turf Roofs Enhancing Community Interaction in a Latvian Guesthouse
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Constructed with innovative polycarbonate panels and a turf roof, the design fosters community engagement and interaction in a multifunctional guesthouse situated in the Latvian landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Use of 100% recyclable polycarbonate panels for natural light and insulation.
02
Turf roof that doubles as a green space for stargazing and recreation.
03
Reimagining a disused hut as a secluded tearoom to enhance community experience.
04
Separate access points for residents and workshop users to improve functionality.
05
Strategically oriented bedrooms to maximize views and morning light exposure.

The TeaMakers Guesthouse is located in the scenic landscape of Latvia. This building serves dual purposes, functioning as both living spaces and a public workshop. The design focuses on creating a strong connection between residents and the natural surroundings. By incorporating existing structures into the new design, it highlights the beauty of the environment while providing practical spaces for community activity.

Adaptation to Context

The Guesthouse draws from the character of the existing Ozolini household and a disused hut. These structures inform the new design, creating a cohesive narrative that respects the site. The arrangement of spaces reorganizes functional needs while presenting inviting views of the landscape. This approach encourages meaningful interactions between the occupants and their surroundings, fostering a harmonious relationship with nature.

Functional Organization

The layout is organized into two main sections: private living areas and public workshop spaces. This clear division allows for easy movement between the two functions while maintaining privacy for residents. The main entrance is dedicated to those living in the Guesthouse, and separate access points cater to workshop visitors. This design choice supports a flexible and functional environment suited to various needs.

Material Considerations

Material selection is an important aspect of the overall design. The building uses 100% recyclable polycarbonate panels, which provide effective insulation and allow natural light to filter in. This choice helps reduce energy use while maintaining a comfortable atmosphere. The turf roof serves practical purposes as well, offering insulation and extending outdoor space for relaxation or activities.

Visual Connection

The building’s design emphasizes the importance of visual connections to the surrounding landscape. The disused hut is reimagined as a quiet tearoom, positioned to take advantage of calming views. A gently flowing roofline links the new extension with existing structures, enhancing the experience of the site. This thoughtful design invites occupants to engage with their environment and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds them.

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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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