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Sustainable Shelter Crafted from Local Wood and Charred Shingles in a Forest Setting

Authors:
Ryuta Inaba, Haruka Yamada, Kaho Ogawa, Daisuke Aita
Sustainable Shelter Crafted from Local Wood and Charred Shingles in a Forest Setting

Project in-detail

Crafted from local wood and enhanced with charred shingles, this portable hut seamlessly integrates into the Latvian forest landscape, offering a versatile shelter for nature enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from locally sourced wood to minimize environmental impact.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic integration.
03
Features a flexible modular design that adapts to various terrains and user needs.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural strength and thermal efficiency.
05
Designed with a bent A-frame shape to optimize natural light and ventilation.
The Bumpy Dumpy Hut project represents a thoughtful exploration of architecture that seeks to harmonize built environments with Latvia's unique natural landscapes. Designed as a versatile shelter, the project addresses the region’s varied topography, featuring construction methods that enable the huts to be adapted to different terrains, including forests, cliffs, and rocky areas. The project demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and environmental consciousness, making it particularly relevant in the contemporary architectural discourse that prioritizes ecological design.

Functionally, the Bumpy Dumpy Hut is intended to serve as a temporary dwelling for hikers and travelers who explore Latvia's rich and diverse outdoor spaces. Its modular design allows for easy assembly and disassembly, making it accessible for users to set up in a variety of locations. The project’s adaptability emphasizes the notion that architecture can be both functional and respectful of the surrounding environment. Each hut can morph into different configurations, thereby accommodating a range of user needs while encouraging engagement with nature.

In terms of design details, the Bumpy Dumpy Hut employs local materials, notably Latvian thinned wood and timber clapboard, which not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the structure but also promote sustainability by reducing carbon footprint through localized sourcing. These materials enhance the huts' durability, ensuring they withstand weather elements while maintaining a lightweight design. Additionally, the integration of adjustable wall systems encourages customization of interior space, promoting user flexibility in its usage.

A unique aspect of the architectural design lies in its emphasis on photogenic qualities that evoke a natural atmosphere. By incorporating elements like strategically placed mirrors, the interiors can capture and reflect natural light, creating a spacious feel and enhancing the sensory experience of the occupants. This attention to light and space further aligns with the project's ethos of merging architecture with the landscape, ensuring that users feel connected to their environment.

The architectural plans and sections provide detailed insights into the construction phases and the modular assembly system. The visual documentation outlines how each component fits together, exemplifying a clear understanding of structural integrity without sacrificing ease of use. The design's modularity not only makes the huts sustainable but also proposes a new way of thinking about mobility in architecture, where living spaces can transition according to user needs and the dynamics of the landscape.

Beyond its functional attributes, the Bumpy Dumpy Hut project also embodies a cultural homage to Latvia. The design takes inspiration from amber, a material deeply rooted in local heritage. This aesthetic alignment with Latvia's natural beauty underscores an architectural approach that celebrates local identity while addressing modern living demands. Moreover, using locally sourced materials not only supports the regional economy but also strengthens community ties to the land.

Overall, the Bumpy Dumpy Hut project is a significant contribution to the dialogue surrounding contemporary architectural practices, especially in relation to sustainability and environmental integration. Its thoughtful design choices and emphasis on adaptability make it a resourceful solution for outdoor shelter, aligning functionality with ecological consciousness. Readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for more details, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas that reflect an in-depth approach to modern architecture and its role in bridging human habitation with nature.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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