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Thatch Roofed Retreat with Natural Wood Elements and Sustainable Construction Methods

Authors:
Daniel Dias dos santos, Elena Gruber
Thatch Roofed Retreat with Natural Wood Elements and Sustainable Construction Methods

Project in-detail

Constructed with thatch roofing and local timber, this retreat integrates innovative screw foundations and eco-friendly materials to provide a tranquil space for yoga and community engagement within its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using sustainable screw foundations to minimize ground disturbance.
02
Incorporates thatch roofing, enhancing thermal insulation and cultural resonance.
03
Features extensive glass walls maximizing natural light and outdoor views.
04
Utilizes clay casein plaster for its ecological benefits and aesthetic appeal.
05
Modular design allows for flexible use of spaces to accommodate various activities.

### Overview
Located on the western coast of Latvia, south of Cape Kolka, the facility serves as a dedicated space for yoga and meditation amidst a diverse natural environment characterized by lush forests and bogs. The intent of the design is to foster a connection with the surrounding landscape while promoting awareness of local ecological issues, such as the preservation of bogs and migratory bird habitats.

### Design Philosophy and Functionality
The project embodies a philosophy of coexistence between architecture and nature, emphasizing minimalism and functionality to reduce its ecological footprint. The layout is carefully crafted to create peaceful experiences that encourage visitors to disengage from urban distractions. Central to this concept is the "Shala," a spacious yoga room with expansive glass openings that provide panoramic views of the landscape, effectively integrating the practice of yoga with the natural setting. Additional areas include private and shared sleeping quarters that utilize movable elements for versatile uses, a covered terrace that enhances indoor-outdoor interaction, and a common kitchen and dining area that supports community engagement.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The construction employs a combination of traditional and modern materials, reflecting the local architectural vernacular while adhering to sustainable building practices. Key materials include screw foundations that reduce ground disturbance and environmental impact, wooden elements chosen for their warmth and local availability, and thatch roofing for thermal efficiency. The use of clay casein plaster further contributes to the ecological integrity of the building, while strategically placed glass openings allow for natural light, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting and enhancing occupants' connection to the environment. The integration of reused concrete pillars also underscores a commitment to resource efficiency.

By prioritizing educational opportunities alongside aesthetic and functional considerations, the design promotes environmental stewardship, enhancing user experience while deepening the collective engagement with the local ecosystem.

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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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