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Timber Pavilion with Latvian Cultural Symbol and Community Focus

Author:
Min Kyaw
Timber Pavilion with Latvian Cultural Symbol and Community Focus

Project in-detail

Incorporating a Latvian cultural symbol, the timber pavilion is designed to foster community interaction while harmonizing with the natural landscape of Pape National Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a 45-degree sloping roof to enhance energy efficiency.
02
Features a prominent symbol of light, representing Latvian culture.
03
Constructed with thick brick walls for utility and durability.
04
Designed to promote social interaction through communal spaces.
05
Integrates large windows for maximum natural light and outdoor views.

The design in Lakstīgalas, Nica, Nīcas Novads, Latvia, reflects an intentional approach to simplicity and functionality within a peaceful natural environment. Located in Pape National Park and surrounded by woods and farmland, the purpose is to provide a welcoming space for visitors. The design concept focuses on hospitality and ease of use, drawing inspiration from local architectural traditions while also incorporating modern elements.

Site Context
The project's location requires a focus on self-sufficiency regarding essential utilities such as electricity and water. Visitors can access the site through various means, including cars and bicycles. The careful arrangement of main facilities ensures accessibility while blending into the surrounding landscape, allowing nature to maintain its prominence.

Building Structure
The main building, called Building A, serves as the operational center, housing ticket booths and other necessary functions. Its roof slopes at a 45-degree angle, which accommodates the installation of photovoltaics. This design choice improves energy efficiency and allows ample daylight to enter through large windows. These features create a strong visual connection with the landscape outside, enhancing the overall experience within.

Cultural Symbolism
Within Building A, a significant design element is the inclusion of a Latvian symbol of light, represented as a bird carrying light. This feature stands out on the building's façade and serves both an aesthetic and cultural purpose. It emphasizes the local heritage and adds a sense of identity to the structure, enriching visitor engagement with the space.

Community Spaces
Building B is attached to the main building and includes practical spaces such as showers, kitchen areas, and communal dining rooms. This arrangement encourages interaction among visitors and aligns with the overall focus on hospitality. The utility shed, known as Utility Shed C, is built with sturdy structural brick walls, ensuring reliability for power generation and water supply while supporting the project’s commitment to sustainability.

The camping area, referred to as Camping Area D, was designed for reflection and immersion in nature, featuring deck spaces for tents and places for communal fire pits. This design element fosters a sense of community among visitors while respecting the natural surroundings.

The design is marked by attention to detail, particularly the large windows that allow views of the landscape, effectively merging indoor and outdoor experiences.

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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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