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Thatched Roof Retreat Emphasizing Natural Light and Organic Geometry for Artistic Living

Author:
Wenqi Huang
Thatched Roof Retreat Emphasizing Natural Light and Organic Geometry for Artistic Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with a thatched roof and designed to promote natural light, this lakeside residence for artists integrates organic geometry with sustainable materials to foster creativity in a serene environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Thatched roof design enhances natural insulation and durability.
02
Organic geometry reflects the natural shapes found in the surrounding landscape.
03
Strategic window placement maximizes views of Cernostes Lake.
04
Flexible interior layout accommodates both communal and private artistic activities.
05
Use of local materials reinforces the connection to regional vernacular architecture.

The Latvia Painter's Lake House is located in the scenic landscape of Latvia, known for its abundant lakes and natural beauty. Designed as a residence for artists, it reflects the idea of "Canvas," which symbolizes both its function and design. The structure connects with its environment in a way that supports the creative pursuits of its residents while maintaining a sense of place within the natural setting.

Architectural Concept

Drawing inspiration from the local landscape, including the gentle waves of Cernostes Lake, the design promotes a fluid form that integrates with the surroundings. The layout encourages a mix of communal and private areas, featuring spaces such as a master bedroom, living room, workshop, and additional functional rooms. This careful arrangement allows residents to interact with one another while also providing personal zones for focused artistic work.

Materials and Construction

Key to the design is the thatched roof, which offers durability and effective insulation against the colder weather typical of Northern Europe. Its lightweight nature allows the roof to take on organic shapes, making the design both efficient and visually appealing. Alongside the thatched roof, the building incorporates wood boards, rafters, fire barriers, and battens. These materials create a strong connection to traditional Latvian architecture while supporting sustainable construction practices.

Spatial Configuration and Light

The arrangement of spaces is designed to maximize natural light and capture views of the lake. Windows and openings are placed strategically, framing the landscape and bringing sunlight into the interior throughout the day. This thoughtful configuration cultivates an atmosphere that inspires creativity and fosters a strong connection with nature, both of which are essential for the residents.

The thatched roof's design, combined with the surrounding trees, forms a distinct outline against the horizon. The gradual shift between indoor and outdoor areas invites nature into the living space. This design detail enriches the experience for occupants, establishing a vibrant relationship with the environment that nurtures both artistic expression and a sense of tranquility.

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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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