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Translucent Fabric-Clad Beacons of Local Timber Offering Community Spaces Along the Baltic Coast

Authors:
Paul Schlachter, Christelle Coetzee
Translucent Fabric-Clad Beacons of Local Timber Offering Community Spaces Along the Baltic Coast

Project in-detail

Translucent fabric beacons crafted from local timber illuminate the Baltic coastline, creating inviting communal spaces that blend seamlessly with the surrounding forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
The beacons are constructed using a translucent fabric that diffuses light, creating a warm glow at night.
02
Local timber sourced from sustainably managed forests is utilized to minimize environmental impact.
03
The structures feature a conical form inspired by traditional maritime aesthetics, reminiscent of lighthouses.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems are integrated to promote sustainability and resource efficiency.
05
Communal spaces are designed within the beacons to foster social interaction among visitors.
The Forest Lamp project is an innovative architectural endeavor situated along the coastline of the Baltic Sea, designed to harmonize with the natural beauty of its forested surroundings while serving essential functions for visitors. This project embodies the interplay between architecture and nature, creating spaces that not only fulfill practical needs but also enhance the overall experience of the landscape. The primary objective of the Forest Lamp is to provide guidance and safety along the coastline while fostering a sense of community among users who seek refuge in this serene environment.

The design features a series of conical structures made from a blend of translucent fabric and local wood. This unique materiality allows the beacons to glow warmly at night, illuminating the area and mimicking the qualities of traditional maritime lighthouses. The use of fabric not only contributes to the ethereal aesthetic of the structures but also facilitates a dynamic relationship with light and shadow throughout the day and night. During the daytime, the beacons blend into the forest, while at night, they transform into inviting lanterns that enhance visibility and safety.

The Forest Lamp project comprises several key components that work symbiotically to create a cohesive experience. Upper and lower viewing decks provide visitors with panoramic views of the Baltic coastline, allowing them to appreciate the natural landscape from different perspectives. The design also incorporates communal spaces, crafted with benches and hammocks that encourage relaxation and social interaction among visitors. This emphasis on community aligns with the project’s broader mission to create an inclusive space where people can gather and enjoy the outdoors together.

One of the most notable aspects of the Forest Lamp project is its commitment to sustainability. The structures are designed with minimal disturbance to the existing landscape and utilize local materials to reduce transportation impacts. For instance, sustainably sourced wood is used for structural support, while durable, weather-resistant fabric provides an aesthetically pleasing and functional enclosure. Additionally, a water harvesting system integrated into the design collects rainwater, further reinforcing the project’s eco-friendly focus.

Another intriguing feature is the innovative circular layout of the site, which facilitates smooth movement within the space while maintaining a connection to the forest and the coast. This approach not only enhances accessibility for all users but also fosters an engaging experience that invites exploration and interaction.

The architectural design embraces the idea of blending the built environment with the natural world, creating a seamless transition that respects the surrounding ecology. By paying homage to maritime traditions through its lighthouse-inspired forms, the project establishes a strong connection to its geographical context, celebrating the relationship between land and sea.

The unique architectural ideas presented in the Forest Lamp project stand as testament to the potential of design that prioritizes sustainability and community engagement. By integrating natural elements and utilizing innovative materials, the project demonstrates a thoughtful approach to contemporary architectural challenges. Visitors are encouraged to delve deeper into the intricacies of the Forest Lamp by exploring architectural plans, sections, and designs that showcase its unique features and ideas. This exploration will undoubtedly provide further insight into how this project redefines the interaction between architecture and the natural environment along the Baltic Sea coastline.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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