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Weathering Steel and Natural Wood Create a Sustainable Community Space in a Forested Environment

Authors:
Renata Wuerkert, Victor Ortiz, Pedro Herman
Weathering Steel and Natural Wood Create a Sustainable Community Space in a Forested Environment

Project in-detail

Utilizing weathering steel and sustainable wood, the design facilitates a communal living experience that harmonizes with the surrounding forest, serving as an integrated space for wellness and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Built with weathering steel, the exterior develops a unique patina over time.
02
Incorporates biogas systems for self-sufficient energy use.
03
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to enhance structural efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
04
Features extensive use of glass to maximize natural light and connection with nature.
05
Integrates vegetable gardens and orchards for community engagement and sustainability.

## Project Overview

Located in a predominantly forested region of Latvia, this design addresses the ecological, social, and cultural characteristics of the area. The intent is to promote sustainable living while fostering connections with local culture and conservation initiatives. The project features a series of interconnected buildings that prioritize energy efficiency and create a dialogue with the surrounding natural environment.

### Architectural Form and Material Strategy

The design draws inspiration from vernacular architecture, employing a series of varied rooflines that collectively evoke the character of a traditional village. The different heights and lengths of the buildings reflect an organic adaptation to diverse family needs over time. The selected materials underscore both ecological responsibility and cultural heritage. Wood serves as a primary material for insulation and aesthetic value, while corten steel reinforces structural integrity. Glass is utilized to enhance transparency, inviting natural light and establishing a connection with the landscape. Durable concrete provides robust support, and fiberglass wool is incorporated for soundproofing and insulation, contributing to overall comfort.

### Integration with Landscape and User Experience

The project is strategically set within the forest, enhancing the user experience by promoting a strong connection to nature. A glass corridor links various functional spaces, acting as a circulation route and communal area that fosters interaction among residents. The layout includes a mix of accommodation types tailored for individuals and couples, as well as communal facilities such as kitchens and dining rooms that encourage social engagement. Designated wellness spaces for yoga and meditation further align with the architectural goals of harmony with the natural environment. Outdoor elements, including vegetable gardens and fruit orchards, reinforce community involvement and education in sustainable practices, allowing residents to actively participate in the ecology of the region.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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