The Four Seasons House presents a careful approach to design, blending with its natural surroundings and encouraging community living through its layout. Located in a wooded area, the project contains two separate housing units arranged around a central circular space. This layout promotes interaction among residents and allows them to enjoy the outdoors. The design incorporates a modern take on traditional Latgallian architecture while emphasizing principles of sustainability.

Architectural Concept

The concept is based on a fresh interpretation of traditional Latgallian housing forms. At the center of the design is the thatched hipped roof, which honors local heritage. This roof acts as a unifying feature, connecting the two separate units and providing shelter for an entryway. The project's plan minimizes its footprint on the land, highlighting the landscape while establishing its presence as a significant built feature.

Spatial Organization

The layout is designed for efficiency and practicality. A central service block separates private living spaces in the southern section from communal work areas in the north. This organization allows for both privacy and community activities, addressing diverse needs. The Atelier showcases three descending floors, which create a visually appealing space and focus views toward the nearby water. A large north-facing window brings ample daylight into the interior and opens onto a patio, reinforcing the connection between the inside and the outside.

Sustainability and Materiality

Sustainability is a key consideration in the design. Spaces are intentionally oriented to capture sunlight for warmth during the colder months. Rooms are situated on the southern side to accumulate heat, while larger openings on the northern side provide good natural light. The building uses materials closely linked to its environment. The roof features straw covering, while wooden elements add structural support. The use of compressed straw blocks improves thermal performance, enhancing comfort levels within the home.

Community Engagement

The Four Seasons House encourages a sense of community among its residents. By placing the two housing units in a way that creates an accessible shared space, the design promotes social interaction. This arrangement invites residents to engage with one another and promotes a culture of sharing ideas and experiences. The varying solid and void elements of the structure invite exploration and create diverse sensations in shared areas, enriching everyday life.

An overarching thatched roof not only offers protection but also serves as a visual centerpiece for the entire complex, echoing the importance of unity and craftsmanship in the design.