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Timber-Framed Retreats Embracing Nature Through Cross-Laminated Design

Author:
Liam Lowry
Timber-Framed Retreats Embracing Nature Through Cross-Laminated Design

Project in-detail

Crafted from cross-laminated timber, the poet retreats seamlessly integrate into their natural surroundings, providing a shared space for contemplation and creativity among artists seeking inspiration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with cross-laminated timber for enhanced sustainability.
02
Includes a dedicated meditation space promoting mindfulness.
03
Features a flexible layout accommodating various poet teams.
04
Natural light is maximized through large oriented windows.
05
Design allows for modular reconfiguration of living units.

The Pavalosta Poet Commune is located in the coastal city of Pavilosta, Latvia, where it acts as a retreat space specifically designed for poets. The retreat provides a calm setting that encourages creativity and personal exploration. The design includes individual living units alongside communal areas, enabling both solitude for artistic work and opportunities for social interaction.

Architecture Concept

The layout consists of clusters of poet huts surrounding a central meeting space and cafeteria. This design encourages communication and collaboration among residents while also offering private areas for focused writing and reflection. The inclusion of a meditation area enhances the experience, prompting users to engage with their thoughts and surroundings. The architecture reflects an understanding of the needs of creative individuals.

Materials and Sustainability

Cross-laminated timber (CLT) and steel braces are used in the construction, offering strength and visual appeal. These materials also contribute to sustainability goals. Continuous insulation is placed within the CLT structure, which helps to maintain a comfortable indoor climate. The choice of materials indicates a focus on environmentally friendly practices, supporting the ethos of the artistic community.

Modularity and Flexibility

Each hut is designed as a modular unit that can be replicated or adjusted based on the needs of residents. This flexibility allows for various configurations for single and double occupancy, including areas for work, living, and cooking. Such adaptability helps cater to different creative processes and facilitates collaboration among poets.

Community Engagement

The central meeting space is equipped with flexible seating and dining options to support both group gatherings and individual use. This design makes it easier for residents to come together, share ideas, and enjoy communal meals. Open areas foster a sense of connection, which is important for encouraging creativity within the retreat.

Large windows bring in natural light, connecting the huts to the surrounding landscape. This design element enhances the sense of calm and inspiration, enriching the overall experience for artists.

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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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