The Pāvilosta PoetPods project is located in Pāvilosta, Latvia, and serves as a sustainable retreat for travelers seeking connection with nature. The design adopts a modular approach, primarily using shipping containers as building blocks. This method enhances both efficiency in assembly and opportunities for environmental responsibility by utilizing recycled materials. The layout connects with the local landscape, promoting harmony between the structures and their setting.

Modular Design

The project emphasizes its modular design, allowing flexibility in the arrangement of spaces. Shipping containers enable quick construction while also accommodating future expansion. The retreat center and individual housing huts create a layout that responds to various occupancy needs, ensuring guest comfort while encouraging social interaction.

Sustainable Practices

A vital aspect of the design is the rainwater harvesting system. This feature collects rainwater for use in irrigation and plumbing, while waste is managed through a constructed wetland. By addressing water conservation, the project reduces its overall environmental impact. Such sustainable practices reflect a commitment to responsible resource utilization that benefits both guests and the surrounding ecosystem.

Site Integration

The layout is carefully oriented along an East-West axis, maximizing natural light and improving energy efficiency. Most windows face north, allowing daylight to fill the interiors while maintaining comfort through passive heating and cooling. Recycled scaffolding serves as shading for southern windows, minimizing heat gain during warm months and promoting a comfortable atmosphere year-round.

Functional Spaces

Inside the retreat center, communal areas are designed to support various activities while providing spaces for relaxation and gathering. Individual huts are tailored for specific occupancy types, balancing privacy with opportunities for social connection. Each unit enhances the overall experience, encouraging guests to unwind amidst the natural beauty of Pāvilosta.

The design features thoughtful details that connect the buildings with the surrounding environment. Outdoor spaces and pathways create transitions between the interior and the landscape, inviting guests to engage with the natural elements around them.