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Weathered Wood Sanctuary Elevated Among Forest Canopies for Mindful Retreat

Authors:
Stephanie Rakiec, David Busch, Arkadiusz Chrobak, Sandra Rodriguez
Weathered Wood Sanctuary Elevated Among Forest Canopies for Mindful Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with weathered wood and rusted steel, this elevated retreat integrates seamlessly into the forest canopy, providing a tranquil space for mindfulness and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using weathered wood, enhancing visual integration with the natural surroundings.
02
Features a bent A-frame design, providing structural stability while maximizing interior space.
03
Employs rusted steel in the façade, offering longevity and reducing the need for maintenance.
04
Incorporates large windows to frame forest views and promote an immersive outdoor experience.
05
Designed with a communal cooking area centered around a natural fire, encouraging group interaction.
PatvērumS, located on the Ozolini Farm in Latvia, is an architectural project designed to serve as an eco-tourism retreat and self-reflection space immersed in nature. This structure represents a harmony between built space and natural landscape, fostering a sense of well-being for its visitors. The design emphasizes sustainability and nature-centric principles, promoting an intimate interaction with the surrounding environment.

The primary function of PatvērumS is to provide a tranquil space for relaxation, creativity, and connection to the natural world. The design encourages mindfulness and communal engagement while offering flexible spaces for meditation, artistic expression, and social gatherings. The structure is characterized by its A-frame form, creating a dynamic relationship between the occupants and the forest environment.

Architectural Form and Materiality

The unique architectural form of PatvērumS integrates folded planes that evoke natural landscapes, resembling the shapes found in the forest. The selection of materials further enhances the project’s connection to its surroundings. Pine wood is employed for both structural and aesthetic purposes, while weathered wood is used for cladding, allowing the building to blend with its natural context. Rusted steel is also incorporated into the façade, adding to the earthy appearance. This careful material choice supports longevity and sustainability while allowing the structure to age naturally over time.

Internal Spaces and Interaction with Nature

Inside PatvērumS, large windows frame picturesque views of the external landscape, facilitating a seamless connection between interior and exterior spaces. This layout not only maximizes natural light but also enhances the sensory experience of occupants. The interior is designed to accommodate various communal activities, enabling flexibility in its usage. A notable feature includes a natural cooking space centered around a communal fire, which promotes interaction and shared experiences among visitors. This aspect of the design recalls traditional practices, further linking occupants with the natural world.

The architectural intent of PatvērumS is to create a sanctuary that emphasizes wellness and connection through thoughtful design. Each element of the project has been carefully considered to promote relaxation, creativity, and engagement with nature. The project showcases innovative architectural ideas that merge functionality with environmental responsibility. For those interested in exploring deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design concepts, a thorough examination of the project presentation is encouraged.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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