Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Siberian Larch Lodge Featuring Tripled Glazed Glass For Efficient Rural Retreat

Author:
Jerel Fernandez
Siberian Larch Lodge Featuring Tripled Glazed Glass For Efficient Rural Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with Siberian larch and utilizing tripled glazed glass, the cabin embodies sustainable design principles while serving as an inviting rural retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a unique adjustable pier foundation system to minimize site disturbance.
02
Incorporates tripled glazed glass to enhance thermal efficiency and natural light.
03
Engages local volunteers in the hands-on assembly process of the structure.
04
Utilizes Siberian larch for durability and to ensure a sustainable environmental impact.
05
Features a bent A-frame design for structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.

This architectural project is a well-considered cabin designed for a rural setting in Latvia. It integrates sustainable principles into its foundational structure while allowing for a collaborative construction process involving community volunteers. The cabin serves as a retreat space, focusing on the balance between human habitation and the environment.

The architecture emphasizes simplicity with a pitched roof and horizontal cladding that complements the landscape. The design allows natural light to enter spacious interiors, fostering a connection to the outdoors. This project showcases thoughtful material selection aimed at durability and ecological responsibility, featuring materials such as Siberian larch for the exterior and plywood used in structural components. This careful selection contributes to the long-term sustainability of the structure.

Unique Design Approaches

The project distinguishes itself through its community-oriented construction methodology. It promotes volunteer engagement, where community members actively participate in assembling the cabin. This hands-on approach fosters skill-sharing, empowering the local population with practical construction knowledge while forming a deeper connection to the final product.

Additionally, the integration of a solar power system and waste-heat recovery highlights a commitment to energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact. The design employs tripled glazed glass for enhanced thermal performance, effectively minimizing energy consumption and maintaining internal comfort.

Sustainability and Functionality

Attention to sustainability extends to waste management and resource utilization. The design includes a recycling strategy for excess materials, showcasing a dedication to minimizing construction waste. Furthermore, the building’s adjustable pier system allows it to adapt to various terrains, reducing its ecological footprint during construction.

The project serves not only as a functional cabin providing shelter but as a model for community engagement and ecological responsibility in architecture. Its focus on integrating sustainable practices with community involvement establishes a strong foundation for future similar projects.

For a comprehensive understanding of the project's architectural plans, sections, and other design elements, readers are encouraged to explore the complete project presentation for more insights into its architectural designs and ideas.

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

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy