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Skylit Cabins with Charred Shingles Integrating Nature and Sustainability

Author:
ALBERTO FIGUEROA MINGARRO
Skylit Cabins with Charred Shingles Integrating Nature and Sustainability

Project in-detail

Incorporating skylights and charred wooden shingles, these self-sufficient cabins create a seamless connection to nature while providing travelers with a comfortable accommodation experience along the Amber Road.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a large PVC skylight for unobstructed stargazing.
02
Constructed using local wood, enhancing cultural relevance.
03
Features a sloped roof for efficient rainwater harvesting.
04
Modular sleeping arrangements adapt to group sizes.
05
Minimized plumbing to reduce environmental impact.

## Project Overview

"Sleeping Under the Night Sky" is situated along the Amber Road in Latvia, presenting a series of self-sufficient cabins designed to enhance the visitor experience while fostering a deep connection with nature. This initiative prioritizes sustainability and user engagement, offering a comfortable and immersive environment for travelers eager to enjoy the natural surroundings, particularly the night sky.

## Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The internal layout of the cabins features adaptable bunk systems catering to various occupancy needs, including single individuals, couples, and families. This design ensures a balance between private and communal spaces, facilitating social interaction while respecting the need for personal privacy. The geometric organization maximizes the use of space, providing comfort without compromising functionality.

Strategic placement of rest areas complements the cabins, enabling guests to unwind amidst the landscape while retaining convenient access to facilities. The cohesive design language between the cabins and rest areas reinforces the overall visual coherence of the project.

## Materials and Sustainability Strategies

Construction employs local materials to enhance both aesthetic value and ecological sustainability. Key materials include wood for structural elements and finishes, concrete for stability, and insulation for energy efficiency. A significant feature is the PVC skylight, which allows natural light and direct views of the night sky.

The project incorporates sustainable systems, notably rainwater harvesting to support basic sanitation needs, thereby minimizing its ecological footprint. By establishing a self-sufficient infrastructure that integrates renewable resources, the design reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable living practices.

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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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