Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Triangular Roofs and Local Stone Constructed Retreat Emphasizing Community and Nature

Authors:
Steven Hendry, Thirza Angelia
Triangular Roofs and Local Stone Constructed Retreat Emphasizing Community and Nature

Project in-detail

With its triangular roof crafted from sustainable timber and a facade of local stone, this retreat harmonizes with the surrounding nature while serving as a communal space for relaxation and workshops.
5 key facts about this project
01
The triangular roof design maximizes natural light and ventilation throughout the interior.
02
Local stone is used not only for aesthetic appeal but also to enhance thermal mass for energy efficiency.
03
A dedicated tea workshop area fosters cultural exchange and education among visitors.
04
The open layout encourages flexibility in use, accommodating both communal gatherings and quiet retreats.
05
Incorporating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces enhances the overall experience of nature.
Tea Camp, situated in the tranquil landscapes of Latvia, embodies a thoughtful approach to architecture that emphasizes a serene retreat for its users. This project represents a harmonious balance between the built environment and the natural surroundings, drawing inspiration from traditional camping culture. The design underscores the simplicity of outdoor living while providing a functional space for guests to relax, engage in workshops, and foster community spirit.

The fundamental function of Tea Camp is to serve as a guest house that supports both individual reflection and social interaction. With its open layout, the structure encourages a flow of movement between communal and private areas, facilitating a gathering place while also offering personal retreats. The layout is thoughtfully organized to include comfortable communal spaces, private sleeping quarters, and designated areas for workshops, emphasizing flexibility and multifunctionality within the architectural design.

At first glance, the exterior of Tea Camp immediately captures attention with its distinctive triangular roof, reminiscent of a traditional tent structure. This form is not merely aesthetic; it serves to evoke the experience of camping while providing functional benefits such as enhanced ventilation and natural light. The materials chosen for the project are crucial in manifesting its core principles. The use of local stone for the lower facade sections gives the building a sense of permanence and grounding, while the wood cladding introduces warmth, aligning with the rustic charm of outdoor settings. The inclusion of a metal roof complements this theme, offering durability and weather resistance, making the structure capable of withstanding the elements.

One of the key design aspects of Tea Camp lies in its extensive use of glass. This decision reflects a commitment to creating a strong connection between the interior spaces and the surrounding landscape. Large windows and strategically placed triangular openings not only frame picturesque views but also allow natural light to flood the interior, promoting an inviting atmosphere that inspires tranquility. This transparency is further accentuated by the architectural sections, which highlight the relationship between indoor activities and outdoor experiences, ultimately inviting occupants to immerse themselves in nature.

The interior spaces are characterized by a minimalistic yet functional approach. The blending of common areas, where guests can gather for meals and socialization, with private sleeping spaces ensures that the design promotes both community engagement and individual privacy. Each area is carefully designed to be adaptable, enabling a variety of uses such as workshops, relaxation sessions, or communal feasts.

The project also acknowledges the significance of craft and simplicity. By focusing on traditional materials and forms, the design encourages an appreciation for handcrafted aesthetics. This approach fosters a sense of belonging and connection, reminding occupants of the fundamental pleasures of life shared around a warm hearth, stories exchanged beneath a starlit sky, and the joys of community building.

In addition to its architectural merits, Tea Camp serves an educational purpose through its dedicated tea workshop space. This aspect promotes cultural exchange, inviting visitors not only to learn about tea culture but also to engage actively with the land and community throughout their stay. By doing so, Tea Camp becomes a place where architecture, function, and learning converge, allowing individuals to deepen their understanding and appreciation of both the local environment and their own experiences.

For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural nuances of Tea Camp, a review of the architectural plans and sections would reveal the careful consideration of spatial relationships and design ideas within the project. This exploration provides insights into the thoughtful details that contribute to the overall experience offered by this unique architectural endeavor. By engaging with the project presentation, readers can appreciate how these elements come together to create a space that not only shelters but also inspires.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
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 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy