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Reclaimed Stone Barn Featuring Warm Timber Accents and Efficient Greenhouse Integration

Authors:
Maria delia Bermeo silva, Andrea Narvaez cardenas, Nadya Jaramillo leon
Reclaimed Stone Barn Featuring Warm Timber Accents and Efficient Greenhouse Integration

Project in-detail

Combining a rehabilitated stone barn with warm timber accents and an integrated greenhouse, this delicately crafted guesthouse enhances its natural surroundings while providing guests with a serene retreat focused on sustainability and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project incorporates a rehabilitated stone barn, preserving its historical integrity while providing modern functionality.
02
Warm timber accents enhance the aesthetic and create a welcoming atmosphere throughout the guesthouse.
03
An integrated greenhouse contributes to natural climate control and promotes sustainable practices in plant cultivation.
04
The design emphasizes community engagement through shared spaces for dining and a dedicated tea-making workshop.
05
Sustainable features, such as rainwater harvesting and dry composting toilets, minimize environmental impact and support eco-friendly living.
The Closed-Cycle Structures Tea Makers Guest House is an architectural project situated in the serene landscape of Ozolinai, characterized by its integration of natural surroundings and functionality. This project embodies a thoughtful representation of sustainable architecture, focusing on the idea of revitalization through the reuse of existing structures. It transforms a former stone barn into a multi-functional space that serves as both a retreat and a center for cultural activities related to tea production.

The design of the guest house emphasizes a harmonious coexistence with nature while promoting local traditions. Its primary function is to provide a welcoming space for guests that fosters relaxation and engagement with the local environment. The architecture is composed of several key components, each contributing to the overall character of the project. The main structure, the rehabilitated stone barn, features preserved stone walls that add historical context and a rustic charm. This space now includes a kitchen and dining area designed for communal gatherings, encouraging interaction among guests.

Another pivotal aspect is the incorporation of a winter garden or greenhouse that acts as a transitional space between the outdoors and the interior. This feature enhances the natural flow of light while also serving as an area for cultivating plants and providing sustainable climate control for the building. The emphasis on natural ventilation and passive heating is reflective of contemporary architectural practices that prioritize environmental responsiveness.

Distributed throughout the property are individual guest cabins designed with minimalism in mind. These cabins emphasize simplicity and comfort, providing guests with a retreat that encourages a deep connection to the natural landscape. Each unit is equipped with essential amenities while being consciously designed to minimize environmental impact. Sustainable features, such as rainwater harvesting systems and dry composting toilets, further underline a commitment to eco-friendly practices that align with the broader principles of sustainable architecture.

The bath area cabins complement the guest accommodations and echo the same design philosophy. They are carefully positioned to offer privacy while maximizing views and access to nature, creating a sense of tranquility and well-being for those who stay.

A significant design approach of this project is to foster a sense of community, not just among guests but also with the surrounding environment. By incorporating shared spaces and promoting local craftsmanship through a dedicated tea-making workshop, the architecture supports cultural identity and local traditions. Each design element has been meticulously chosen to enhance this connection, reinforcing the idea that architecture can play a vital role in strengthening community ties.

This project stands out not only for its sustainable features and community-centric design but also for how it respects and celebrates its location. The strategic placement of structures allows for unobstructed views of the surrounding lakes and fields, encouraging visitors to engage with the beauty of the natural context while enjoying modern comforts.

As you explore the project presentation further, consider looking into the architectural plans and sections that detail the spatial arrangement and structural elements of the guest house. Examining the architectural designs and ideas behind this project provides deeper insights into how thoughtful architecture can positively impact both individuals and the community at large.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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