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Translucent Facade With Sustainable Timber and Aquaponic Integration in Community Retreat

Authors:
Anaïs Duquesnoy, Lucien Desmenez
Translucent Facade With Sustainable Timber and Aquaponic Integration in Community Retreat

Project in-detail

The combination of a transparent facade and integrated aquaponics system creates a distinct living environment that promotes sustainability and community engagement within a modern retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent facade designed to optimize natural light while blending indoor and outdoor spaces.
02
Integrated aquaponics system to support self-sufficient food production on-site.
03
Use of charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels employed for structural strength and sustainability.
05
Community-oriented layout promoting interaction among guests through shared spaces.

## Overview
Located in Latvia, TERRA NOSTRA is a design initiative focused on sustainable tourism that aligns with local culture, ecology, and modern architectural principles. The project emphasizes self-sufficiency and a strong connection between guests and the natural environment. By integrating transparency in its primary structure, the design not only acknowledges traditional Latvian architecture but also prioritizes functional aspects such as natural light and internal temperature regulation.

## Architectural Structure and Spatial Strategy
The design features a primary building that maintains a traditional aesthetic while incorporating modern elements to enhance ecological adaptability. The transparent envelope serves to blur the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces, fostering a cohesive relationship with the surrounding landscape. Key spatial elements include guest rooms designed for individual privacy, communal kitchens and dining areas that encourage social interaction, as well as wellness facilities for yoga and community events that reinforce the project's commitment to community engagement.

## Material Sustainability and Systems
TERRA NOSTRA employs materials that resonate with the local environment while emphasizing sustainable practices. The extensive use of glass in the facade facilitates natural lighting and outdoor connectivity, while stone and brick provide structural integrity and aesthetic continuity. Wood is utilized for both flooring and framing, enhancing warmth within the interiors. A green roof further contributes to biodiversity and manages rainwater effectively.

In addition to material considerations, several sustainable systems are integrated into the design. Solar panels are installed to support energy generation, while an aquaponic system promotes a symbiotic relationship between food production and ecological health. Rainwater harvesting mechanisms ensure efficient water management throughout the site, and wind turbines supplement energy needs, reflecting an overarching commitment to renewable resources. The landscaping includes vegetable gardens, orchards, and water features, promoting biodiversity and supporting community cultivation.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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