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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

Project in-detail

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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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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