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Biodiversity-Focused Visitor Center Featuring Local Stone and Timber Integration in a Sensitive Landscape

Author:
Genius Loci v.h.
Biodiversity-Focused Visitor Center Featuring Local Stone and Timber Integration in a Sensitive Landscape

Project in-detail

Set against the backdrop of the Great Kemeri National Park, a visitor center incorporates local stone and laminated timber to create a seamless connection with the surrounding bog landscape while serving as an educational hub for nature enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design features a pergola that mimics the natural shapes of the surrounding bog.
02
Local stone is prominently used for the façade, enhancing environmental integration.
03
Large glass windows allow for unobstructed views of the landscape while maximizing natural light.
04
The flexible interior layout accommodates various educational and community activities.
05
Sustainable materials, including laminated timber, are utilized throughout the structure for durability.
The Visitor Center designed for Great Kemeri National Park in Latvia is an architectural project that serves as a hub for education and tourism while harmonizing with the surrounding bog landscape. Its design integrates the natural environment with functionality, providing various spaces for exhibitions, community interaction, and visitor amenities. This facility is strategically positioned to minimize disruption to the local ecosystem while enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Integration with Landscape
The architectural design is characterized by its commitment to environmental integration. The low-profile structure mirrors the contours of the bog, utilizing local materials to ensure that the building blends seamlessly into its setting. Natural stone is used prominently for the façade, providing durability and a relationship to the earth. The building's form and façade are inspired by the organic shapes found in the bog ecosystem, emphasizing a connection to nature. Large glass windows throughout the design offer unobstructed views of the landscape, allowing natural light to flood the interior spaces and creating a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors.

Unique Architectural Elements
Key aspects of the project include a pergola that resembles the structure of the bog, designed to support climbing plants and provide shade. This feature not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the biodiversity of the area. The pathways leading to and around the visitor center are constructed from local stone and gravel, guiding visitors through landscaped areas and promoting exploration of the park. The design prioritizes accessibility and functionality, ensuring that all visitors can engage with the space comfortably.

Focus on Education and Community Engagement
The interior layout is designed to accommodate various activities, from exhibitions that educate visitors about the local ecology to community events. The flexible space can transform to meet different needs, promoting engagement from both tourists and local residents. The cafeteria and resting areas strategically placed throughout the building encourage social interaction, enhancing the visitor experience. The use of energy-efficient LED lighting throughout further supports the project’s sustainable approach, without compromising on design quality.

To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans and sections of the Visitor Center, explore the detailed elements that illustrate this project’s functionality and architectural ideas. The interplay between environment and structure presents a practical model for future architectural endeavors within sensitive landscapes. The unique design approaches in this project serve as a reference point for integrating educational facilities within natural settings.
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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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