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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

Project in-detail

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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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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