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Wave-Shaped Pergola and Pine Cottages Embracing Riverfront Wellness

Authors:
Aleksandra Hiller, Tatiana Kościelniak
Wave-Shaped Pergola and Pine Cottages Embracing Riverfront Wellness
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A wave-shaped pergola defines the design of cottages made from pine, seamlessly integrating with the riverfront to provide a retreat focused on wellness and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Wave-shaped pergola enhances outdoor comfort and aesthetics.
02
Cottages oriented to maximize morning sunlight and afternoon shade.
03
Constructed primarily with locally sourced pine for sustainability.
04
Includes a sauna adjacent to the river for immediate cooling.
05
Shared terrace features a fireplace to encourage community interaction.

The Caramel Shore Traveller Rooms project in Latvia showcases a well-thought-out design tailored for travelers who appreciate comfort and nature. The central theme of the design is a pergola that resembles the flow of a wave, creating a connection to the nearby winding river. This design element enhances both the aesthetics and functionality of the outdoor spaces, offering guests opportunities for relaxation.

Design Concept

The layout features five cottages facing southeast. This positioning maximizes the inflow of natural light, brightening the interiors while also providing shade during warmer parts of the day. The wave-shaped pergola serves a dual purpose, acting as both a functional element for shading and a visual feature that reflects the natural environment. Each cottage is designed with separate areas for sleeping, cooking, dining, and bathroom facilities, ensuring that guests experience a practical and comfortable stay.

Materials

Pine wood is the primary material used throughout the project. It appears in the construction of the kitchenette, dining area, and sleeping spaces, promoting a cohesive and warm atmosphere. The inclusion of beige tiles in the bathroom supports easy maintenance and complements the natural wood elements, creating a balanced and functional interior design that is both inviting and durable.

Amenities and Site Features

The site plan goes beyond guest accommodations to include essential amenities, such as parking spaces and a warehouse for storage. A shared terrace equipped with a fireplace offers communal space for guests to gather, fostering a sense of community. The addition of a marina with boat berths allows easy access to the river, encouraging guests to engage in outdoor activities and appreciate their surroundings.

Design Detail

A sauna positioned near the river serves as a notable feature of the design. It invites guests to enjoy the benefits of relaxation and immersion in nature. The sauna encourages a smooth transition from warmth to cool water, enhancing the experience of staying within this unique environment and connecting visitors with the natural landscape surrounding the cottages.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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