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Timber Cabins Elevated Above Nature with Solar Energy Solutions

Authors:
Tuğçenur Kars, Meryem Öztürk, Müşerref yaren Soylu
Timber Cabins Elevated Above Nature with Solar Energy Solutions

Project in-detail

Elevated timber cabins, equipped with solar energy and composting toilets, enhance the natural landscape of Skrunda, Latvia, offering a sustainable retreat for travelers seeking connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Timber cabins are elevated on platforms to enhance privacy and views.
02
Solar panels provide renewable energy for cabin utilities.
03
Each cabin features a composting toilet to reduce water usage.
04
The design integrates endemic vegetation for biodiversity.
05
Communal areas promote social interaction among guests.

In the heart of Skrunda, Latvia, the Inspire Venta traveller rooms project offers a thoughtful design that sits alongside the Venta River. It aims to enhance the visitor experience by bringing together modern elements with traditional influences. The primary goal is to create a comfortable space for guests, encouraging their connection to nature while promoting opportunities for community interaction.

Design Concept
The design focuses on finding a balance between privacy and communal living. The cabins are raised off the ground, providing guests a sense of seclusion while also allowing for views of the natural surroundings. Careful planning keeps private sleeping areas separate from shared facilities, which fosters engagement without compromising comfort.

Material Selection
Timber is the main material used in building the traveller rooms. This choice reflects local construction traditions and supports sustainable practices. Each cabin measures 20 square meters and contains essential spaces, including a small kitchen, a living area, a sleeping area for two, and a bathroom equipped with a composting toilet designed to reduce water usage.

Sustainability Features
Solar panels on each cabin generate energy for lighting and small appliances, aligning with the focus on environmental responsibility. The landscape design includes green spaces, agricultural areas, and native plantings. These choices not only enhance the visual appeal of the site but also support local wildlife and biodiversity.

Community Integration
The project includes a restaurant, small shop, communal kitchen, playground, and tennis court to create a sense of community among visitors. Social facilities are thoughtfully placed for easy access while preserving the privacy of the cabins. Camping areas promote outdoor activities, enriching guests' experiences and connecting them with the landscape.

Each traveller room features a raised platform that allows for views of the river and surrounding fields. This design element fosters a connection to the environment and reflects a commitment to providing an immersive experience for every guest.

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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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