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Repurposed Shipping Containers Elevate Sustainable Lodgings in Rural Latvia

Author:
Marta Ruselik
Repurposed Shipping Containers Elevate Sustainable Lodgings in Rural Latvia

Project in-detail

Repurposed shipping containers form elevated cabins that integrate sustainable practices with local Latvian culture, providing immersive lodging in a rural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Repurposed shipping containers are elevated to enhance views and privacy.
02
Sustainable features include solar panels and efficient water management systems.
03
Compact cabins are designed with multifunctional interiors for flexible use.
04
Communal spaces foster interaction among guests while connecting with nature.
05
Local materials reflect Latvian cultural identity and environmental sensitivity.
The CAB I-N2 project is an architectural initiative located in the rural landscapes of Skrunda City, Latvia. This project transforms shipping containers into compact, functional cabins designed for sustainable tourism. The project aims to foster a deeper connection with nature and local culture while promoting an immersive travel experience. It integrates innovative design techniques and sustainable practices to align with contemporary tourism demands.

Unique Design Approaches
CAB I-N2 distinguishes itself through its use of repurposed shipping containers as the primary structural element. This choice not only minimizes the environmental impact by utilizing existing materials but also connects the design to Latvia’s maritime history. The arrangement of these containers showcases a sensitivity to the surrounding topography, with cabins elevated strategically to enhance views and ensure privacy while encouraging social interaction among guests. Each unit is designed with multifunctionality in mind, featuring foldable furniture and efficient layouts that optimize the limited space available.

Environmental sustainability is a core tenet of this architectural project. Solar panels and efficient water management systems are integrated into the design, promoting eco-friendly living practices. The project also emphasizes local materials, ensuring that the overall structure is both harmonious with the environment and reflective of the region's cultural identity.

Architectural Details
The architectural details of the CAB I-N2 project include a careful consideration of space usage and accessibility. Each cabin has approximately 20 square meters of space, designed to accommodate essential living needs while fostering comfort. Orientation of the cabins allows for natural light penetration through expansive windows, contributing to energy efficiency and enhancing the internal environment. The layout promotes outdoor engagement with communal areas and recreational facilities, such as paths interconnecting the cabins and social gathering spaces strategically located to facilitate interaction.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of this architectural design, readers are encouraged to explore the project’s architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural details to appreciate the depth of the design approach. The CAB I-N2 project exemplifies a practical response to the growing emphasis on sustainable tourism within architecture.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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