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Reading Nook and Skylights Complementing Concrete and Wood Cabins in the Latvian Countryside

Author:
Jeff Leopold
Reading Nook and Skylights Complementing Concrete and Wood Cabins in the Latvian Countryside
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Exposed rafters and specialized skylights define the warm interiors of concrete and wood cabins in the Latvian countryside, creating a tranquil retreat for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Exposed rafters enhance both aesthetics and structural integrity.
02
Reading nooks create intimate spaces within an open layout.
03
Skylights strategically placed for optimal natural light.
04
Concrete foundations provide stability while maintaining warmth.
05
Wood shingles on side façades ensure harmony with the landscape.

The Caramel Shore Cabins project is located in the Latvian countryside, a setting that enhances its purpose as a retreat focused on safety, comfort, and community. The design emphasizes a connection between the landscape and the built environment. Visitors are encouraged to explore their surroundings while enjoying the warmth and welcoming nature of the cabins.

Site Layout and Connectivity

Guests are guided through the site by winding pathways, which lead to essential communal areas, including an administrative building and a boat dock near a sauna. This thoughtful arrangement promotes interaction among visitors as they navigate the space. The pathways invite exploration and create a sense of community, allowing guests to connect with both each other and the natural beauty around them.

Interior Design and Spatial Progression

Inside the cabins, a focus on vertical space creates a feeling of openness. Exposed rafters run along the walls, offering structural support while enhancing the aesthetic appearance. The design features upward movement, leading to spaces such as a reading nook that provides a comfortable spot to relax. This progression within the layout optimizes the experience of each cabin, making them inviting and functional.

Material Choices and Aesthetics

Material selection is important in the overall design of the cabins. The lower perimeter wall is made of concrete, which forms a sturdy foundation for the structure. Above this, wooden elements are used in the front and back façades, adding warmth to the overall design. The side façades are covered in wood shingles, maintaining a cohesive look that aligns with the natural environment and adds to the visual interest of the cabins.

Light and Ventilation Strategies

Natural light and airflow are thoughtfully integrated throughout the cabins. Large windows in the rear façades provide scenic views and create a bright, inviting space for activities such as reading. Operable windows throughout the cabins allow fresh air to flow, promoting comfort. Skylights enhance the interior by letting in additional daylight, creating patterns of light and shadow that change throughout the day. This attention to light and ventilation enriches the living experience, grounding the cabins firmly in their natural context.

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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.

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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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