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Thatch Roof Retreat with Heat-Retaining Warmth and Flexible Gatherings

Authors:
Jonin Ngo, John Mai
Thatch Roof Retreat with Heat-Retaining Warmth and Flexible Gatherings

Project in-detail

Constructed with a thatch roof and heat-retaining bricks, these poet huts offer a blend of communal and private spaces designed for creative reflection and social interaction among writers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Each hut features a thatch roof, integrating traditional Latvian building methods.
02
The design employs heat-retaining bricks to enhance winter comfort.
03
A cross-braced arch system creates open, column-free interiors.
04
Moveable folding doors allow the terrace to adapt for various uses.
05
Self-contained units are equipped with kitchenettes and basic amenities.

The Pavilosta poet huts are located in Latvia, designed as a retreat for travelers looking to escape from busy city life. The design reflects a connection to traditional Latvian styles while also meeting the needs of modern visitors. The emphasis is on community, allowing guests to connect with one another while also having spaces to focus on their own thoughts and creativity.

Traditional Design Elements

The huts feature thatched roofs, which pay tribute to local building practices. This choice not only adds to the charm of the huts but also serves a practical purpose. The roofs help keep the interiors warm, making the living spaces comfortable throughout the year. The use of local materials highlights a commitment to sustainability and cultural relevance.

Spatial Configuration

Inside, the layout is defined by a cross-braced arch system. This design choice allows for open spaces without columns, facilitating easy movement and interaction. Sunlight streams in through a central glass void, lighting up the living areas. Even during dark winter days, the spaces feel bright and welcoming.

Versatile Communal Areas

The project includes communal spaces, such as a terrace that can serve multiple purposes. With moveable folding doors, the terrace can be enclosed, providing shelter for gatherings during colder times. A fireplace made from heat-retaining bricks adds warmth and acts as a focal point for social connection in shared spaces.

Self-Contained Accommodations

Each poet hut is equipped with the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay. Features include beds, desks, kitchenettes, washing facilities, and storage. These individual huts cater to the needs of guests while allowing for personal time. The shared kitchen and dining area foster collaboration and community among visitors, enhancing the overall experience.

The Pavilosta poet huts illustrate a thoughtful approach to design. By combining traditional styles with modern functionality, they create an environment where community living and personal retreat coexist. The attention to both social spaces and private accommodations supports the creative process, making the site a unique destination for poets and writers.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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