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Timber Cabins Integrated with a Woodland Ecosystem

Authors:
Tobias Keller, Stefan Scheid
Timber Cabins Integrated with a Woodland Ecosystem

Project in-detail

Timber cabins are thoughtfully integrated into a reforested landscape, creating a micro-ecosystem that enhances both biodiversity and the visitor experience in a residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Timber cabins feature gabled roofs that reference traditional Latvian architecture.
02
The project incorporates a micro-ecosystem to support local biodiversity.
03
Wooden walkways connect the cabins and cross over a newly created river arm.
04
Local timber is used extensively to reinforce sustainability practices.
05
Newly planted trees help mitigate summer heat while enhancing site comfort.

Venta Vēna is located in Latvia and focuses on connecting living spaces with the surrounding natural environment. The design centers on an approach that promotes sustainable living while respecting the landscape. Drawing inspiration from the nearby Venta River, the project aims to create a unique experience for residents and visitors alike.

Connections to Nature
The project features an organic micro-ecosystem that runs through the site. This design choice promotes a smooth transition between public and private spaces, integrating reforestation as a key element. The choice of plants not only provides privacy but also enhances local biodiversity. The overall layout fosters a sense of calm and encourages people to appreciate the area's natural beauty.

Pathways and Ecosystems
Wooden walkways connect the various buildings within the development. These paths wind over a new “river arm” designed to act as a small ecosystem. The layout accommodates natural flooding events during high water, which makes the landscape feel more dynamic. This relationship with water allows visitors to engage closely with nature while moving through the space.

Sustainable Materiality
Local timber plays a significant role in the construction of paths and cabins. This choice shows a commitment to sustainability and the importance of using materials that are readily available in the environment. By relying on local resources, the project minimizes its impact on the ecosystem while staying connected to the place itself.

Ecological Design Features
The landscaping supports a variety of plants that filter rainwater and provide habitats for small animals. These ecological elements enhance the stability of the site and improve drainage during heavy rainfalls. Newly planted trees help reduce heat in the summer, offering shaded areas that make the environment more comfortable for everyone.

The cabin design includes generously pitched roofs that reference traditional Latvian architecture. This architectural detail offers a balance between honoring local heritage and meeting modern living needs. Each cabin promotes a strong sense of belonging while remaining integrated into the lush surroundings.

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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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