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Birch-Inspired Structure Connecting City and Nature Through Thoughtful Design

Authors:
Simone Vioglio, Giancarlo Nisi, Giacomo Crosetti
Birch-Inspired Structure Connecting City and Nature Through Thoughtful Design

Project in-detail

Crafted from wood boards that mimic local birch trees, the bridge serves as a vital connection between Sigulda City and Gauja National Park while enhancing visitor engagement with nature through its integrated observation deck and educational features.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from wood boards that mimic the texture of local birch trees.
02
Features a reticular steel frame designed for high pedestrian traffic.
03
Incorporates a unique Tibetan Bridge element promoting exploration.
04
Includes an Info Point and Observation Deck for educational engagement.
05
Prioritizes accessibility with a continuous level design throughout.

The Two Souls Bridge in Gauja National Park, located near Sigulda City, represents a blend of functionality and a connection to nature. It serves an important role by linking the urban area of Sigulda with the diverse attractions of the national park. The design aims to create a welcoming atmosphere, one that respects local culture while meeting the practical needs of visitors.

Design Concept
The concept of the bridge emphasizes a close relationship with its natural surroundings. It draws on traditional elements while addressing modern needs for urban transport. The bridge links the city to features within the park, including a children’s playground, while offering views of the nearby lake. This approach encourages interaction and enjoyment of the landscape.

Structural Features
The bridge is supported by a sturdy reticular steel frame. This design allows it to handle a large number of pedestrians. The visual lightness of the structure adds to its appeal. Attention to accessibility means that everyone can comfortably move across the bridge, making it an inclusive space for all visitors.

Material Integration
The design evokes the local environment through its choice of surfaces. Wood boards are arranged to imitate the texture of birch trees found in the park. This connection to the local flora reinforces an appreciation for the natural beauty surrounding the structure.

Engagement Elements
A key feature is the Info Point and Observation Deck, which enhances the visitor experience. It provides information about the park, encouraging people to learn more about the natural world around them. Additionally, the incorporation of a Tibetan Bridge element invites exploration, fostering a sense of adventure among visitors.

The bridge concludes with a design that not only reflects the surrounding landscape but also enriches the experience for all who travel across it.

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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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