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Tree Bark Roof and Timber Columns Enhance Meditative Living in Rural Latvia

Author:
Koray Inal
Tree Bark Roof and Timber Columns Enhance Meditative Living in Rural Latvia
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Constructed with a tree bark roof and supported by timber columns, this residence offers a distinctive blend of sustainability and tranquility, creating dedicated spaces for both daily living and meditation in the rural landscape of Latvia.
5 key facts about this project
01
Tree bark shingles provide natural insulation and integrate with the rural landscape.
02
Timber columns create an open interior that enhances natural light throughout the home.
03
Dedicated meditation space is intentionally separated from daily living areas.
04
The design features a bent A-frame structure that optimizes sunlight and ventilation.
05
Careful material selection emphasizes sustainability and minimal environmental impact.

The Split House is located in rural Latvia, blending traditional design with contemporary functionality. It offers a space that accommodates everyday living alongside designated areas for meditation. This architectural approach draws from local building styles, featuring steep roofs and simple rectangular forms. The house meets the practical needs of its environment while enhancing the quality of life for its occupants.

Design Concept

The concept of the Split House focuses on dividing the interior space into specific areas. Living, cooking, and relaxation spaces are separate from those intended for meditation. This division is not just about layout; it creates an atmosphere of calm. The design stretches and tilts, which allows it to respond to sunlight and environmental factors. The result is a structure that feels both connected to nature and designed for comfort.

Space Organization

Inside, the floor plan is organized thoughtfully. It includes an entrance, a living area, a kitchenette, a shower, a dry toilet, a lounge, a meditation room, and a porch. Each space has a specific purpose and flows naturally into the other. This arrangement promotes comfort and privacy while ensuring that the house meets the needs of its residents. Every part of the home is placed to enhance usability.

Material Assemblage

The materials chosen for the Split House reflect its commitment to sustainability and authenticity. Tree bark roof shingles cover the house, providing insulation and blending the structure with its natural surroundings. The wood frame, supported by timber columns, stands out for both its strength and traditional appeal. A glass entrance invites light into the space, allowing the outside to become part of the interior experience.

Design Detailing

Design details are an essential aspect of the project. Layers of construction enhance both performance and style. Plywood panels, insulation, and waterproofing are carefully integrated to create a durable and functional home. These thoughtful choices culminate in features like the wooden deck that extends from the house. This deck encourages outdoor interaction and strengthens the connection between the inside and outside spaces.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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