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Wooden Deck Overlooking Cernostes Lake with Stone Foundation and Bat Habitat

Authors:
Felipe Chaweles, Luiza Oliveira, Pedro Cabús
Wooden Deck Overlooking Cernostes Lake with Stone Foundation and Bat Habitat

Project in-detail

A circular wooden deck extends over Cernostes Lake, seamlessly integrating a bat habitat within a structure built on a preserved stone foundation, providing a dedicated environment for artists to create and collaborate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular wooden deck extends into the landscape, promoting collaboration among artists.
02
Preserved stone foundation minimizes environmental impact and enhances structural stability.
03
Design includes a dedicated bat habitat to support local wildlife conservation.
04
Strategic placement of double-glazed windows maximizes natural light while reducing heat loss.
05
Three distinct studio spaces cater to differing artistic processes and modes of engagement.

The design near Cernostes Lake in Latvia creates an environment for artists that thoughtfully interacts with its surroundings. It serves as both a residence and a creative workspace. The overall design concept combines elements of traditional Latvian architecture with the needs of modern artists. The layout features three studio spaces that face the lake, allowing for various artistic activities while promoting both personal reflection and team collaboration.

Conceptual Framework

The core idea behind the layout is to balance the known aspects of creating art with the unknown elements that inspire creativity. By arranging the studio spaces for individual and group work, the design supports different ways of making art. A central circular deck extends into the landscape, encouraging connections among artists while providing a spot for discussion and shared inspiration.

Material Use

Materials are chosen with care to enhance both function and aesthetics. The existing stone foundation has been thoughtfully preserved, minimizing disruption to the environment. In addition, wooden elements are incorporated in the central deck, which adds warmth to the overall atmosphere. These materials support a creative and inviting environment, blending local traditions with contemporary needs.

Sustainability Considerations

Sustainability plays an important role in the design approach. A hydronic heating system uses wood as an energy source, ensuring warmth while reducing the need for electricity. This choice reflects a commitment to environmentally friendly practices. Further, an attic space has been designated as a habitat for local bat species, showing that ecological conservation is valued alongside human use.

Natural Light and Views

Maximizing natural light is a crucial aspect of the design. Double-glazed windows are strategically placed to allow ample sunlight while reducing heat loss. These windows enhance the working environment within the studios, creating an inviting space for artistic activities. The views of the lake provide an ongoing source of inspiration, reminding artists of the beauty of their natural surroundings.

Attention to details, such as the connection between indoor spaces and the outdoor deck, reinforces the design's focus on a supportive environment for artistic practice.

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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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