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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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MICROHOME 2026
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
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20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
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100,000€ Prize / 2026

The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

`
Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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