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Timber Cabins Integrated with a Woodland Ecosystem

Authors:
Tobias Keller, Stefan Scheid
Timber Cabins Integrated with a Woodland Ecosystem
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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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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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