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Vegetal Roofs and Local Reeds Define Eco-Friendly Lodging Along the Baltic Coast

Author:
David Pelissou
Vegetal Roofs and Local Reeds Define Eco-Friendly Lodging Along the Baltic Coast

Project in-detail

Utilizing a vegetal roof and local reeds, the eco-friendly cabins along the Baltic coastline offer sustainable lodging designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Vegetal roofs capture rainwater, enhancing sustainability and promoting local biodiversity.
02
Each cabin utilizes locally sourced scotch pine and reeds to minimize environmental impact.
03
Open glass walls provide panoramic views of the Baltic Sea while maximizing natural light.
04
Central woodburners offer efficient heating, aligning with the project's ecological focus.
05
Composting toilets facilitate responsible waste management, reducing reliance on traditional systems.
The Fossil Amber Road Trekking Cabin project is a modern architectural endeavor situated along the Baltic Sea in Latvia. Comprised of a network of 25 cabins, each designed to accommodate up to eight individuals, this project emphasizes sustainability, ecological awareness, and a strong connection to the natural landscape. The architecture aims to disrupt minimal environmental footprint while providing comfortable lodging for nature enthusiasts.

The cabins are strategically spaced every 20 kilometers along the shore, promoting easy access for trekkers and outdoor adventurers. The footprint of each cabin is designed to be compact, covering only 45 square meters while maintaining a livable area of 25 square meters. This size encourages efficient spatial use, allowing for communal experiences that engage occupants with their surroundings.

Unique Design Approaches and Materiality

The design of the Fossil cabins utilizes local materials, such as scotch pine wood and reeds, which are environmentally sustainable and contribute to the overall aesthetic cohesion with the landscape. The project embraces a holistic approach to material selection, as it achieves a significant green footprint of 98%.

One of the defining features of the cabins is the vegetal roof. This roof serves multiple functions including rainwater filtration and storage, which not only enhances the sustainability of the cabins but also reinforces their integration with the surrounding natural environment. Additionally, large glass walls are prominent in the design, providing unobstructed views of the Baltic Sea and forming a visual connection between the indoor living space and the exterior.

The architectural approach is further highlighted by the incorporation of a central woodburner for heating, allowing for efficient temperature regulation within the cabins. The design also features innovative bathroom facilities utilizing composting toilets, enhancing the project's overall sustainability.

Sustainability and User-Centric Design

The user experience is central to the project, with a practical transportation network outlined to ensure accessibility. An accompanying app offers relevant functionalities for reservations and resource management, streamlining the experience for guests. The combination of these design elements forms a cohesive project that aligns with contemporary needs for environmental responsibility and user engagement.

For more detailed insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs, we encourage interested readers to explore the project presentation. Engaging with the accompanying materials will provide a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas and innovative solutions exemplified in the Fossil Amber Road Trekking Cabin project.
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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
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