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Timber Canopy Retreat Embracing Natural Light in the Latvian Woodland

Authors:
Cynthia Li, Jerry Chen
Timber Canopy Retreat Embracing Natural Light in the Latvian Woodland

Project in-detail

With expansive windows and low-carbon timber canopies, the retreat offers a serene living space that harmonizes with the Latvian woodland, fostering mindfulness and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Timber canopies extend outward, enhancing shade and shelter.
02
Geometric layout allows for clarity and ease of movement within the cabin.
03
Large windows provide uninterrupted views of the surrounding woodland.
04
Low-carbon materials minimize environmental impact and enhance sustainability.
05
Dedicated meditation spaces promote tranquility and mindfulness practice.

The design located in the Latvian woodland serves as a retreat focused on mindfulness and sustainability. It functions both as a living space and a place for meditation. Inspired by the practice of meditation, the cabin promotes calmness and self-reflection while connecting harmoniously with the natural surroundings.

Spatial Organization

The cabin is structured with two distinct levels that cater to different activities. The lower floor creates a sense of enclosure, with the living area protected by canopies. This setup enhances comfort and encourages a connection to the outside environment. It acts as a refuge from daily distractions, inviting residents to engage more deeply with their surroundings.

Upper Level Experience

Dedicated to sleeping and meditation, the upper level is designed to maximize natural light. Large windows on the front, rear, and sides ensure that sunlight fills the space. This thoughtful arrangement fosters a strong visual connection between the interior and the forest landscape. Occupants can enjoy the changing views of nature while feeling a sense of openness and tranquility.

Material Considerations

The choice of materials emphasizes sustainability and practicality. Low-carbon, sustainable timber and plywood are used throughout the design. These materials play a vital role in the structural elements, such as framing and wall paneling. This selection supports the goal of creating a living space that aligns with the principles of environmental responsibility.

Geometric Harmony

The design employs a clear geometric approach, leading to a modular structure that promotes straightforward navigation and interaction within the cabin. The repetition of shapes provides visual consistency and contributes to a calming environment. This arrangement encourages occupants to experience mindfulness by feeling at ease in their surroundings.

Glass panels expand the interior space outward, inviting the beauty of the Latvian woodland inside and reminding residents of nature's constant presence.

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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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