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Salvaged Stones and Wood Create a Harmonious Retreat in a Forest Setting

Author:
Tor Möller
Salvaged Stones and Wood Create a Harmonious Retreat in a Forest Setting

Project in-detail

Using salvaged stones and wood, the design intertwines with the forest landscape to create a dual-function studio and residence for artists seeking inspiration by Lake Cernoste.
5 key facts about this project
01
Large window openings frame views of the surrounding forest and lake.
02
The design incorporates flexible screen walls for adaptable living and working environments.
03
Salvaged stones from previous structures are integrated into the foundation.
04
Wood chips from demolition are repurposed within the project.
05
The layout separates creative spaces from recreational areas across two floors.

Studio: Recreate is located in the tranquil Latvian forests by Lake Cernoste. It serves as both a workplace and a temporary home for two artists and their families. The design emphasizes a strong connection between the structure and its natural surroundings, aimed at encouraging creative work and fostering community among its users.

Spatial Configuration

The layout is organized into two private units, each designated for a family, linked by shared spaces that promote interaction. This arrangement allows for personal privacy while providing opportunities for communal engagement. The building also separates work areas from leisure spaces, with creativity focused on the lower level and recreation above, promoting a clear distinction between the two activities.

Material and Construction

Wood is the main material used in the construction, following traditional Latvian building methods. This choice respects the local architectural heritage and supports sustainability goals. Stones from older buildings have been incorporated into the design, which highlights a commitment to reusing materials. Additionally, wood chips generated during demolition have been repurposed, reducing waste and reinforcing the ecological aspects of the project.

Light and Views

Large windows are placed throughout the design to capture views of the surrounding landscape. These openings allow natural light to brighten the interior spaces, enhancing the feeling of connection to the outdoors. The north facade is designed to follow the shoreline, which further integrates the building into its picturesque setting by framing the stunning natural scenery outside.

Flexibility and Adaptability

The design includes flexible areas, achieved through the use of movable screen walls. This feature allows residents to adapt the interior spaces based on their needs and activities. Since the artists may not occupy the space permanently, this adaptability is crucial. It enables them to rearrange the layout as their creative processes evolve, providing a dynamic environment that supports artistic endeavors.

The thoughtful integration of private and shared areas creates a space conducive to creativity and community, allowing the natural beauty of the site to enhance the artistic experience within.

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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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