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White Pine Retreat with Panoramic Views by the Lake

Author:
Gabriella Mozo
White Pine Retreat with Panoramic Views by the Lake

Project in-detail

A triangular form and large glass surfaces create a light-filled workspace that seamlessly connects with the serene landscape of Cernostes Lake, serving as a residence and an inspiring retreat for artists.
5 key facts about this project
01
Triangular architecture enhances structural stability and spatial organization.
02
Large glass surfaces provide unobstructed views of Cernostes Lake.
03
Locally sourced white pine connects the design to its natural surroundings.
04
Flexible workspaces allow for adaptive use and creative collaboration.
05
Interior courtyard features a modular curtain system for privacy control.

The Trekant House is situated on the calm shores of Cernostes Lake in Latvia. Designed as a residence, it blends with the natural surroundings while providing a modern living space. The design centers around geometric simplicity, using a triangular form that shapes both the exterior and the interior. This approach encourages a connection between the home and its environment, making nature a vital part of daily life.

Spatial Organization

The layout of the Trekant House is organized around a central triangular theme. This shape is extended in various ways to create interconnected spaces. The result is a structure that is both stable and functional. The design allows for easy movement between indoor and outdoor areas, connecting residents with the natural beauty of the lake and surrounding landscape.

Transparency and Light

A key aspect of the Trekant House is its focus on transparency. Large glass surfaces are strategically placed throughout the building, allowing ample natural light to fill the interiors. This design choice fosters a vibrant atmosphere and creates a visual connection with the outside. The interplay of light makes the living spaces feel more open and inviting, offering an inspiring environment for artistic work.

Community and Flexibility

Inside, the Trekant House features communal areas, including a kitchen, dining space, and a conversation pit centered around a fireplace. This layout encourages socializing and strengthens the sense of community among family members and guests. The workshop area includes an interior courtyard equipped with a modular curtain system, allowing for flexible working spaces. This arrangement supports both individual creativity and group projects, catering to varying needs.

Material Choice

The materials chosen for the Trekant House include concrete, locally sourced white pine wood, aluminum, stain glass, and glass. These selections align with a focus on sustainability and local character. The use of white pine wood connects the structure with the environment, while the generous glass elements enhance the transparency necessary for a strong relationship between the indoors and the serene outdoor setting.

The careful blend of geometric design and thoughtful material usage results in a home that fulfills its purpose while celebrating the beauty of its location. Residents enjoy unobstructed views of the lake from the main living spaces, allowing them to fully appreciate the tranquility 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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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