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Warmth of Wooden Walls in a Tent-like Retreat for Nature Enthusiasts

Authors:
Steven Hendry, Thirza Angelia
Warmth of Wooden Walls in a Tent-like Retreat for Nature Enthusiasts

Project in-detail

A tent-like structure with wooden walls and an emphasis on natural light creates an inviting retreat for visitors seeking a communal experience in the heart of Latvia’s landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Tent-like structure integrates camping aesthetics with modern functionality.
02
Wooden walls enhance warmth and create a cozy atmosphere.
03
Natural light is a central design element, promoting a serene environment.
04
The layout encourages communal interaction among guests.
05
Located in Latvia, it emphasizes sustainability and connection to nature.

Tea Camp is located in Ozolini, Latvia, and serves as a guest house for those interested in tea-making. The design takes inspiration from camping, a popular activity that brings people closer to nature. The architecture reflects a tent-like shape, which not only provides shelter but also invites guests to engage with the surrounding environment. This connection to the outdoors is a central theme, promoting a sense of community and simplicity.

Form and Function

The structure's form closely resembles a traditional camping tent. This design choice helps create a welcoming atmosphere while addressing practical needs. The shape allows for an efficient layout that can accommodate visitors comfortably. With this design, the building becomes an extension of the natural environment, encouraging exploration and interaction.

Natural Lighting

Natural light plays a crucial role in the overall experience at Tea Camp. Large openings fill interior spaces with daylight, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This emphasis on light enhances the connection between indoor areas and the outside world. The resulting brightness fosters a sense of tranquility and relaxation for all who stay.

Material Usage

Wood is the primary material used for the interior walls. This choice adds warmth and a tactile quality to the space, offering comfort reminiscent of outdoor camping. The use of wood not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also reinforces the theme of simplicity. A furnace is included, providing necessary warmth and echoing the shared experience of gathering around a campfire.

Spatial Configuration

The layout of Tea Camp encourages movement and interaction among guests. Open spaces allow for easy navigation throughout the building. This design helps bring people together and cultivates a sense of community, much like the traditional outdoor experiences that inspired it. By removing physical barriers, the space invites conversations and shared moments.

The overall design emphasizes a balance between comfort and a connection to nature. Each element works together to create a unique experience where visitors can enjoy the peacefulness of their surroundings.

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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

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