Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Translucent Polycarbonate and Timber Pavilions for Sustainable Trekking Amenities

Authors:
Matteo Biasiolo, Tim Bacheller, Kenneth Mitchell
Translucent Polycarbonate and Timber Pavilions for Sustainable Trekking Amenities
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Crafted from translucent polycarbonate and elevated timber structures, the design offers eco-friendly pavilions that enhance the trekking experience along Latvia's Amber Road.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from sustainable materials, including translucent polycarbonate and locally sourced timber.
02
Elevated structure minimizes ecological impact by reducing soil disruption.
03
Sloped roof design facilitates both rainwater management and natural ventilation.
04
Open floor plan encourages community interaction among trekkers.
05
Integrated solar panels support off-grid energy efficiency for enhanced sustainability.

### Project Overview
The design consists of a series of pavilions along the Amber Road in Latvia, intended to support and enrich the experience of trekkers. Emphasizing sustainability and ecological preservation, the architecture is designed to integrate with the natural landscape while offering necessary amenities for hikers. The intent is to reflect cultural heritage through contemporary interpretations of traditional Latvian agricultural structures.

### Structural and Spatial Strategy
The project utilizes a timber pile foundation that elevates the pavilions, minimizing soil disturbance and reducing environmental impact. Within the framework, open floor plans are established to promote flexibility and social interaction among users. The spatial organization includes distinct functional zones for sleeping, storage, and communal activities, thereby fostering connection while maintaining an efficient use of space. Large openings and strategically positioned windows facilitate natural lighting, enhancing the interior environment.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The design incorporates a sustainable material palette featuring locally sourced timber and translucent corrugated polycarbonate for walls and roofing. These materials not only provide durability but also allow for effective rainwater management and natural ventilation. Solar panels are integrated into the design, enabling off-grid operation and supporting renewable energy initiatives. The elevated structure ensures minimal ecological disruption, making it suitable for its remote setting while honoring cultural connections through the amber motif, echoing local history and identity.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

`
Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in