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Reflective Glass and Reused Wood in Harmony with Lake Views

Authors:
Stavroula Chandrinou, Sebastian Fejes-sava, Mathilde Zita
Reflective Glass and Reused Wood in Harmony with Lake Views

Project in-detail

With reflective glass enveloping reused wood elements and a design that maximizes sunlight and lake views, the structure serves as a communal residence that enhances the connection to nature for its occupants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective glass walls enhance natural lighting while maintaining privacy.
02
Reused wood sourced from local structures contributes to sustainability.
03
Each family wing is designed for optimal sunlight and lake views.
04
Central communal spaces encourage resident interaction and collaboration.
05
A rooftop terrace offers expansive views of the surrounding landscape.

The design in Latvia presents a thoughtful blend of modern living and the natural setting. Located near Lake Cernostes, it focuses on creating a living space that promotes sustainability and interaction among families. The concept, called "A Modern Fairytale," connects residents to the local landscape, fostering an inviting community atmosphere.

Design Layout

The layout consists of a single building divided into wings for individual families. This design choice ensures privacy while encouraging engagement through communal areas located at the center. Spaces like the paint studio and terrace serve as gathering points, promoting social interaction among residents. The symmetrical arrangement enhances the overall visual harmony and optimizes the use of space within the structure.

Material Selection

Materials play a crucial role in this design's character. Key materials include reflective smoked glass, recycled steel, Hamilton oak, and reused wood sourced from older structures. Each material serves a dual purpose: to provide visual appeal while supporting environmental sustainability. The use of tinted reflective glass on the exterior allows the building to blend with the surroundings and optimize natural light in the interior spaces.

Connection to Environment

An emphasis is placed on the connection to the natural environment. The building is positioned to capture maximum sunlight and views of the lake. This encourages a feeling of closeness to nature within the living spaces. The reflective surfaces help the building mirror its surroundings, fostering a sense of continuity between the indoors and the outdoors.

Architectural Expression

The architectural expression offers a mix of modern features and traditional touches. By prioritizing natural light and openness, the interior creates a calm atmosphere. The design includes both private and communal spaces. Central areas encourage community interactions, while individual wings provide retreats for families.

The design culminates in a rooftop terrace that provides wide views of the lake, allowing residents to enjoy their natural surroundings. This element adds to the sense of community while reinforcing the importance of the landscape in daily life.

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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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