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Thatched, Boat-Like Cabins Featuring Wood and Glass Integration Along Historic Trekking Routes

Authors:
Stefan Nesic, Jelena Stojic
Thatched, Boat-Like Cabins Featuring Wood and Glass Integration Along Historic Trekking Routes

Project in-detail

Crafted from thatched roofs and wooden frames, these boat-like cabins seamlessly integrate large glass panels to enhance connection with the surrounding landscape, providing sustainable shelter for trekkers along the historic Amber Road.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with thatched roofs, enhancing thermal performance and aesthetic connection to traditional Latvian architecture.
02
Utilizes large glass panels to maximize natural light and provide unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to optimize structural integrity and reduce material usage.
04
Features modular design elements, allowing for adaptable configurations based on specific site conditions.
05
Employs charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and a striking visual contrast against natural wood tones.

### Overview

Located in Latvia, the CabinBoat project is situated along the renowned Amber Road, a historical pathway characterized by diverse landscapes that include both forested areas and coastal vistas. This architectural initiative aims to create a series of cabins that blend with their natural surroundings, providing rest points for trekkers while aligning with principles of sustainability and environmental stewardship.

### Spatial Configuration

The CabinBoat features an angular, streamlined silhouette inspired by traditional boat forms, which fosters a harmonious interaction with the landscape. The roof's inclinations are designed to follow the topography, enhancing the structure's integration into its environment. The interior layout is efficiently organized to accommodate essential functions for travelers, including an entrance hall, resting benches, and storage for trekking gear. This meticulous arrangement prioritizes functionality while allowing users to experience the surrounding nature.

### Materials and Construction

A carefully selected palette of materials contributes to both the aesthetic appeal and functional performance of the CabinBoat. Wood serves as the primary material, promoting comfort and sustainability, while its thermal properties improve livability by offering effective insulation. The thatched roof not only enhances the cabin's rustic charm but also facilitates rainwater collection and provides natural cooling. Large glass windows maximize views of the exterior landscape and allow for abundant natural light, creating a sense of openness. Additionally, stone elements in the foundations contribute structural stability, while composite materials are strategically used in areas requiring durability. The design emphasizes adaptability, enabling the cabins to seamlessly fit within either forest or coastal contexts.

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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

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