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Sailcloth Pavilion Embracing Coastal Harmony with Pine and Aluminum Construction

Authors:
Sarah Pumphrey, Ronn Daniel
Sailcloth Pavilion Embracing Coastal Harmony with Pine and Aluminum Construction

Project in-detail

Constructed primarily with sailcloth and timber, the pavilion seamlessly integrates into the coastal landscape, serving as a versatile shelter for nomadic living while facilitating a dynamic interaction with the surrounding environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with sailcloth for maximum flexibility and lightness.
02
Incorporates locally sourced pine slats, promoting regional sustainability.
03
Features aluminum joints for enhanced structural integrity and reduced weight.
04
Open layout fosters seamless indoor-outdoor living experiences.
05
Designed to be mobile, allowing for relocation and reconfiguration.

### Project Overview

BURUhouse is situated at the junction of forest and ocean in Latvia, designed as an architectural pavilion for temporary nomadic living. The design aims to meet the needs of its occupants while integrating into the surrounding natural environment, reflecting the region's coastal heritage.

### Spatial Strategy

The architecture emphasizes a dynamic interaction with environmental elements, inspired by the movements of a sailboat. The open, organic form invites occupants to engage with both indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering an environment that harmonizes human presence with nature. The layout promotes fluid transitions between areas, encouraging interactions that enhance communal experiences and individual reflection.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The material choices in BURUhouse are critical to its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Sailcloth serves as the primary exterior, providing durability and adaptability while interacting with wind and light to create a unique visual experience. The structure is supported by locally sourced pine slats, which contribute warmth and resonate with sustainability principles. Custom-designed aluminum joints connect timber elements, reinforcing structural integrity and exemplifying a blend of traditional and contemporary craftsmanship. This thoughtful approach to materiality not only ensures durability but also aligns with an eco-friendly ethos, highlighting a commitment to environmental preservation.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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