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Sedum Roofs and Timber Huts Creating a Retreat for Writers

Author:
Stephen Buchanan-lacey
Sedum Roofs and Timber Huts Creating a Retreat for Writers

Project in-detail

With a series of timber huts topped with sedum roofs, the retreat offers writers an environment rich in natural light and privacy, while fostering a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Huts are elevated on platforms to minimize environmental impact.
02
Curved designs reflect the natural movement of water.
03
Full-height glazing enhances interior light and views.
04
Sedum roofs integrate local flora for improved insulation.
05
Utilizes locally sourced timber to reduce carbon footprint.

The design is inspired by the journey of Latvian windsurfer Janis Preiss, situated between the calm waters of the Baltic Sea and the tranquil landscape of Latvia. It features a collection of poet's huts that serve as a retreat for writers, allowing them to find inspiration in solitude while also promoting a sense of community. The design concept emphasizes harmony with the environment, reflecting the movement and fluidity associated with water.

Design Layout

The site layout is carefully organized to create both private and communal spaces. Five poet huts are arranged to ensure privacy while maximizing views. They are complemented by host accommodation, communal spaces, and necessary amenities such as bathrooms and storage areas. This arrangement supports the retreat's purpose of providing a conducive environment for reflection and creativity.

Functional Spaces

Different functional areas address the diverse needs of users. Living and writing spaces foster creativity, while a wet room with a view invites natural light and visual engagement with the surroundings. The communal spaces include a multifunctional area that combines dining, cooking, and library functions with a roofed terrace. This design enhances opportunities for socializing without impeding personal quiet time.

Architectural Elements

The design reflects its surroundings and the experience of windsurfing through its architectural features. Curved forms are used to echo the natural movement of water, creating an inviting atmosphere. Full-height glazing in the huts allows for expansive views, drawing the outdoor landscape into the interior and creating a connection with nature.

Materials

Glue laminated timber forms the structural backbone of the huts, combining visual appeal with strength. Locally sourced timber ties the project to its geographical context and promotes sustainability. Metal trims define the edges, providing a clean finish, while sedum roofs are integrated with local ferns. This promotes biodiversity and supports insulation, aligning with ecological responsibilities.

The composition results in an inviting space that encourages reflection and interaction. It allows occupants to engage with their surroundings while honoring the narrative of Preiss’s journey through this beautiful landscape.

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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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