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Sustainable Cabin with Timber Cladding and Rainwater Harvesting Integrating Cultural Heritage

Author:
Kaia Zupping
Sustainable Cabin with Timber Cladding and Rainwater Harvesting Integrating Cultural Heritage
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Constructed with timber cladding and equipped with a rainwater harvesting system, the cabin embodies Latvian cultural heritage while providing a functional base for outdoor activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced timber for sustainable construction.
02
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for enhanced ecological efficiency.
03
Features circular windows, creating a unique visual connection to nature.
04
Employs screw piles for adaptable foundation suited to varied terrains.
05
Blends traditional Latvian motifs with contemporary design elements.

## Overview

The Latvian Trekking Cabin is situated along Latvia's coastline, designed to serve as a base for exploration of the region's diverse natural landscapes. The project merges contemporary architectural principles with elements of Latvian cultural symbolism, producing a cabin that reflects both the natural beauty and heritage of the area.

## Spatial Strategy

The architectural layout emphasizes communal living through the incorporation of outdoor gathering spaces, which facilitate interaction and connectivity among users. An open-plan interior promotes flexibility, accommodating various activities ranging from group gatherings to individual retreats. Architectural features, such as prominent gabled roofs, enhance natural ventilation and daylighting, contributing to an overall inviting atmosphere. The inclusion of semi-private areas provides opportunities for reflection and tranquility, further reinforcing the relationship between the occupants and the surrounding landscape.

## Material Selection

The materials employed in the construction are primarily locally sourced timber, which is integral to minimizing the environmental impact. Timber serves as the main structural component while plywood is utilized for interior finishes, and timber cladding defines the exterior facades. Concrete is applied for the fireplace, and sustainable insulation methods enhance thermal performance. A rainwater collection system supports the cabin's commitment to sustainability, ensuring efficient resource use while adapting to varying terrain through the innovative use of screw piles for foundational support. These choices reflect a comprehensive approach to ecological stewardship and functional design.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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