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Residential retreat featuring cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles for a seamless integration with nature

Authors:
Mikael Junehag, Robin Bylund
Residential retreat featuring cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles for a seamless integration with nature

Project in-detail

Nestled in the Latvian forest, this residential retreat masterfully combines cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles to create a serene sanctuary that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while offering versatile spaces for reflection and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The construction utilizes locally sourced cross-laminated timber panels, promoting sustainability and reducing the environmental footprint.
02
Charred wooden shingles were incorporated for both aesthetic appeal and enhanced durability against weathering.
03
The bent A-frame structure allows for optimal snow management in winter, reducing maintenance challenges in a forested environment.
04
Interior spaces feature movable partitions that provide flexibility for various activities, from solitary reflection to group gatherings.
05
Large glass panels are strategically placed to maximize natural light while maintaining privacy and uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape.
This architectural project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to design that marries form and function within a natural setting. Located in a serene area of Latvia, this architectural endeavor captures the essence of retreat and tranquility, aimed at individuals seeking solace from the fast-paced modern world. The project serves as a space for reflection, creativity, and relaxation, ideally suited for meditation and quiet contemplation.

The design represents a commitment to sustainability and environmental consciousness, using locally sourced materials to create a structure that integrates cohesively with its surroundings. The prominent use of timber, specifically local hardwood, is a nod to the natural context and helps in blending the architecture seamlessly with the dense forest landscape. The exterior features vertical wooden slats that not only provide visual interest but also serve functional purposes, such as shading and privacy while letting natural light infiltrate the interior.

Within the project, spatial organization is a key focus, highlighting the effectiveness of design in making the most of a compact area. Functional zones are meticulously planned, allowing each area to serve multiple purposes without feeling cluttered. The living areas are designed to foster interaction and comfort, while the meditation zones provide a sanctuary for peaceful reflection. Each space is carefully crafted to maintain an open atmosphere, yet provides the necessary privacy for individual activities.

Uniquely, the architectural design employs large glass panels, which play a pivotal role in the overall aesthetic and experience of the space. These transparent elements promote visual connections with the surrounding environment, offering sweeping views of the forest while creating an immersive experience that encourages occupants to engage with nature. The interplay of light within the interior is thoughtfully considered, with natural illumination emphasizing the texture and warmth of the wood finishes that adorn the walls and ceilings.

Another distinctive feature is the innovative use of eco-friendly finishes that align with the project's sustainability goals. These natural finishes contribute to the overall atmosphere, reinforcing the connection to the outdoors while ensuring minimal environmental impact. The integration of an insulated panel system enhances energy efficiency, allowing the building to remain comfortable throughout various seasons without sacrificing the project’s ecological aims.

The architectural plans reveal how the design cultivates a sense of balance between indoor and outdoor environments. Terraces extending from the primary living areas allow for outdoor engagement, providing opportunities for relaxation amid the beauty of the forest. This aspect highlights an intentional design decision to embrace and incorporate the natural surroundings, rather than imposing a structure upon it.

Taking into account the importance of communal interaction, the project includes shared spaces that encourage socialization among occupants while still allowing for solitude when desired. The design embraces the notion of versatility, facilitating various activities from group gatherings to individual viewing experiences, without compromising the integrity of personal space.

In terms of architectural ideas, the project exemplifies a modern yet timeless approach that prioritizes the user experience, demonstrating how thoughtful architectural design can foster a deeper connection to nature. The architectural sections detail the interplay between different structural elements, providing insight into the carefully crafted relationships among the spaces within the project.

For those seeking to deepen their understanding of this architectural endeavor, exploring the project presentation will shed light on the intricacies of the architectural plans and sections that make this design stand out. Delve into the architectural details to appreciate how the project embodies a philosophy of simplicity and harmony with the surrounding environment, reinforcing the idea that architecture can indeed create a bridge between people and nature.
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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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