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Thatch and Timber Retreat Integrating Communal Spaces in a Natural Setting

Authors:
Steven Loutherback, Ben Dossett
Thatch and Timber Retreat Integrating Communal Spaces in a Natural Setting

Project in-detail

Constructed with thatch and local timber, this retreat enhances communal living through its adaptable design and operable facades, providing a seamless connection to the surrounding forest environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced thatch, enhancing thermal performance and cultural resonance.
02
Features operable facades that promote natural ventilation and connectivity with the landscape.
03
Incorporates communal hearth in the foyer to foster social interactions among occupants.
04
Design draws from traditional Latvian building techniques, merging heritage with modern needs.
05
Timber frame structure utilizes cross-laminated panels for efficient construction and durability.

## Overview
Amber Crossings is situated within the forested landscapes of Latvia, designed to integrate modern architectural principles with local heritage. The project aims to provide a recreational cabin that fosters ecological awareness and enhances the user experience through a direct connection to nature. The design draws inspiration from traditional Latvian construction methods, ensuring that the cabin resonates with the historical and aesthetic context of the region.

### User-Centric Spatial Organization
The spatial layout of Amber Crossings is strategically developed to optimize user experience while promoting community interaction. A main foyer serves as a welcoming transitional space, drawing occupants into a cozy environment that celebrates the surrounding nature. Sleeping quarters are thoughtfully arranged to provide privacy while still encouraging communal activities in shared areas. The large entry doors act as an invitation, facilitating an engaging experience for visitors and hikers alike as they navigate through the space.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The architectural design emphasizes the use of local materials that reflect both tradition and sustainability. Timber is the primary material used for construction and interior finishes, sourced sustainably to align with ecological goals while providing effective insulation. Stone elements, particularly in the hearth, offer a tactile contrast to wood, thus grounding the structure in its natural setting. Large windows and sliding glass walls enhance transparency and connectivity to the forest, while a thatched roof showcases traditional Latvian techniques, prioritizing cultural relevance. Steel components provide structural reinforcement, seamlessly integrating with the timber framework to ensure durability without compromising aesthetic integrity.

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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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