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Wooden Sanctuary Featuring Passive Design and Natural Light Integration

Authors:
Lucy Yang, Emma Van der staay, Tanya Gradyuk, Juan Jabile
Wooden Sanctuary Featuring Passive Design and Natural Light Integration

Project in-detail

Constructed with Norway spruce and polycarbonate elements, this meditation cabin emphasizes passive design and natural light to create an immersive retreat within the Latvian wilderness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced Norway spruce to minimize environmental impact.
02
Utilizes polycarbonate panels to enhance natural light diffusion throughout the interior.
03
Features an angular design to optimize wind deflection and sunlight exposure.
04
Incorporates a wood-burning stove as a central element for warmth and ambiance.
05
Adopts passive design strategies to maintain thermal comfort year-round.
The Grove is an architectural project situated in the Latvian wilderness that emphasizes the relationship between built form and natural surroundings. The design integrates seamlessly into the landscape, promoting a sense of retreat and introspection. The structure serves primarily as a meditation cabin, providing a space for reflection and connection with nature.

The architectural design employs a careful selection of materials, including Norway spruce timber, prefabricated panels, and polycarbonate elements. These materials not only enhance the building's aesthetic but also ensure sustainability by sourcing locally. The cabin features an open floor plan facilitating versatility in use, while maintaining a visual and physical connection with the exterior landscape through strategically placed large openings.

Unique Design Approaches

What sets The Grove apart from other projects is its focus on sensory experiences and its innovative approach to blending the interior with the exterior environment. The angular geometric design is aimed at deflecting wind and maximizing exposure to sunlight. This intentionality creates distinct microclimates within the cabin, allowing occupants to experience varying atmospheric conditions while remaining sheltered.

Natural wood cladding gives the building a rustic appearance that aligns with the forest environment. The presence of a wood-burning stove within the central space not only serves as a heating element but also acts as a design focal point that invites occupants to engage with the warmth and ambiance of the interior.

Architectural Details and Functional Elements

The architectural plans articulate clear functional zones within the cabin, allowing for meditation, creative activities, or simple relaxation. The design employs passive ventilation strategies that enhance indoor air quality while maintaining thermal comfort. The integration of polycarbonate panels facilitates light diffusion, contributing to a soft, ambient interior environment.

The architectural sections demonstrate how the building interacts with its surroundings. Each design aspect is considered in relation to seasonal changes, ensuring that the structure remains relevant and functional throughout the year.

For those interested in learning more about The Grove, exploring the project presentation will provide additional insights into the architectural designs, architectural plans, and architectural ideas that define this thoughtful project.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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