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Wooden Retreat with Sloping Roof in Tranquil Natural Setting

Author:
Nadav Fuerstain
Wooden Retreat with Sloping Roof in Tranquil Natural Setting
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The carefully designed sloping roof and integrated wooden elements create a harmonious retreat that encourages meditation and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
An integrated wooden shell enhances natural insulation and aesthetic continuity.
02
The design features a sloping roof specifically tailored to manage local snow loads.
03
Transitional spaces create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor environments.
04
Geometric forms are carefully aligned to optimize views of the surrounding landscape.
05
Open areas are strategically arranged to foster meditation and quiet reflection.

Located in the Gulf of Riga, within the areas of Rigat, Ozolini, and Teamakers, the project aims to create a peaceful retreat that blends with its natural environment. The design focuses on forming a quiet space that meets the various challenges posed by local weather conditions, such as rain, snow, cold, heat, and insects. It is built with the intent to promote calmness and reflection for its users.

Geometric Integration

The design employs a geometric approach, featuring a cube-like structure that enhances spatial organization. This form allows for effective use of space while ensuring it fits well within the natural landscape. Certain parts of the exterior mass have been carefully removed to accommodate essential functions, including staircases and heating storage. The sloping roof design effectively addresses local snow management needs.

Functional Organization

The layout prioritizes open areas, fostering meditation and engagement with the surrounding nature. The entrance serves as a transition zone, blending indoor and outdoor spaces while providing a welcoming area for reflection. The upper levels contain sleeping areas and storage, arranged to promote connectivity among the different rooms. The gallery’s placement allows occupants to remain linked to shared spaces, enhancing communal interaction.

Material Considerations

Wood serves as the primary material within the building's interior. This choice contributes warmth and a tactile link to the natural surroundings. The selection of wood aligns with the overall goal of creating a calming environment. Additionally, the design draws inspiration from traditional construction methods, providing a thoughtful approach that respects the local architectural context while incorporating modern elements.

Design Detailing

The sloped roof is not only a visual element; it also plays a crucial role in managing snow accumulation. By minimizing contact with the ground, the design reduces any negative impact on the environment while enhancing a sense of openness. This careful attention to form and function enriches the overall experience, allowing occupants to enjoy a tranquil connection with the landscape surrounding them.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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