Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Repurposed Shipping Containers Enhanced by Natural Insulation and Scenic Integration

Authors:
Tim Bacheller, Matteo Biasiolo, Kenneth Mitchell
Repurposed Shipping Containers Enhanced by Natural Insulation and Scenic Integration
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Utilizing repurposed shipping containers and natural insulation materials, this series of modular cabins integrates seamlessly into Latvia’s diverse landscapes, providing sustainable lodging options for eco-conscious travelers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Repurposed shipping containers form the primary structure, enhancing sustainability.
02
Natural insulation materials, including moss, optimize thermal performance.
03
Cabins are designed for modularity, allowing flexible configurations.
04
Large glass facades provide panoramic views and blend the indoor-outdoor experience.
05
Strategic placement in diverse landscapes encourages environmental interaction.

## Project Overview
The project focuses on the development of modular cabins along the Amber Road in Latvia, utilizing repurposed shipping containers to create a range of lodging options tailored to various geographical settings. The intent is to fuse local heritage with sustainable practices while enhancing the tourism experience through thoughtful architecture that engages with Latvia's natural landscapes.

## Design Strategy
The architectural approach is rooted in modularity, promoting flexibility and ecological balance. Shipping containers serve as the primary structural elements, which not only contribute to cost-effectiveness but also support the swift assembly and adaptive reconfiguration of the cabins to suit different environments.

Three distinct cabin typologies have been designed to interact intimately with their surroundings:
- **Field Prototype**: This configuration allows for expansive views and communal outdoor spaces, with upper levels designed for private sleeping quarters.
- **Forest Prototype**: Positioned discreetly among trees, these cabins prioritize minimal disruption to the natural environment and include communal areas that facilitate social interaction.
- **Water Prototype**: Situated near beaches, these structures feature large glass facades that promote an indoor-outdoor living experience, aligning with the coastal setting's recreational activities.

## Material Composition
The materials used in the project enhance both functionality and aesthetics.
- **Steel Shipping Containers**: Provide the fundamental structure, known for durability and rapid assembly.
- **Birch Plywood**: Used for interior finishes, contributing warmth and character to the spaces.
- **Glass**: Features prominently in window elements for natural light and scenic views.
- **Moss and Natural Insulation**: Employ these materials for their sustainability and thermal properties, reinforcing the project's ecological goals.

Additional materials include wood for decking to transition seamlessly into the landscape and a metal framework to ensure structural stability. Each cabin typology is crafted to respond not only to environmental needs but also to enhance the user experience through connection with nature and the surrounding community.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

`
Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in