The Pavilosta Poet Huts are designed as a retreat in Pavilosta, Latvia, for poets seeking solitude and inspiration. The design emphasizes a strong connection between the buildings and the natural surroundings, allowing an enriching experience that supports personal creativity as well as community interaction. The layout features a series of huts arranged around a central public space, blending individual reflection with opportunities for social engagement in a lush, grassy setting.

Design Concept

The concept focuses on deconstructing traditional Latvian house styles, resulting in a collection of huts that offer various functions while maintaining a unified look. This layout promotes both personal retreat and community participation, allowing visitors to interact with locals and take part in regional activities. The combination of these elements creates a thriving environment for artistic exploration.

Functional Areas

Included in the design are many practical spaces such as meditation rooms, reading areas, a library, and exhibition spaces. These dedicated areas enhance the poet’s experience by providing environments suited for deep thought, creativity, and socializing. The careful placement of these functions encourages a smooth transition from public spaces into more private areas, enriching the overall visit.

Architectural Features

A noteworthy element of the huts is the thatched sloped roof, common in traditional Latvian architecture. One side of the roof is raised, which invites natural light into the interiors and connects the space with the outdoors. The design features a cut ridge that runs parallel to the ground, increasing the sense of openness and fostering a relationship with the landscape.

Central Courtyard

At the center of the site lies a courtyard surrounded by the huts, serving as an important social area. This space allows for informal gatherings and shared activities, offering a setting for community interaction while keeping a sense of privacy. The arrangement of the huts around this courtyard enhances both the visual appeal and experience of the area, creating a welcoming environment that encourages engagement with nature.

The warm exteriors of the huts, complemented by the green grass beneath and the vast sky above, create a calm atmosphere that supports both reflection and creativity.