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Cedar Cladding and Green Roof Pairing in a Community-Centric Visitor Center

Author:
James Mulligan
Cedar Cladding and Green Roof Pairing in a Community-Centric Visitor Center

Project in-detail

Blending cedar cladding with a vibrant green roof, the visitor center seamlessly connects with its natural surroundings while serving as a communal space for environmental education and exploration.
5 key facts about this project
01
The visitor center incorporates green roofing systems that support local biodiversity by allowing native vegetation to thrive.
02
Cedar cladding is utilized not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its natural durability and weather resistance.
03
A unique bent A-frame design enhances structural integrity while offering expansive interior spaces and elevated views.
04
Permeable pavers are used in the landscaping to manage stormwater runoff effectively, contributing to sustainability goals.
05
Flexible interior spaces are designed to adapt to various community activities, from educational workshops to nature exhibits.
The Great Kennerly Bog Visitor Center represents a thoughtful integration of architecture and nature, designed to enhance visitor engagement with the unique landscape known as "the Land of the Bogs." This visitor center serves a vital function as an educational hub and community gathering space, fostering a deeper understanding of the ecological and historical significance of the area. By creating an inviting environment, the project encourages exploration and appreciation of its natural surroundings.

At its core, the design reflects a commitment to sustainability and ecological sensitivity. The architectural approach emphasizes the use of natural materials and incorporates innovative design strategies that resonate with the site. The choice of cedar for exterior wall cladding provides a warm aesthetic while ensuring durability, and the inclusion of corrugated metal brings a contemporary edge that is both functional and pleasing to the eye. The roofing system features galvanized steel and green roofing elements, designed specifically to collect rainwater and support local vegetation, thus promoting biodiversity.

The project is meticulously planned, creating a seamless relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces. Expansive windows and skylights flood the interior with natural light, reducing the need for artificial illumination while offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This emphasis on transparency not only enhances the ambiance but also fosters a sense of connection to the environment. Inside, the visitor center includes flexible spaces for community interactions, workshops, and exhibitions, which can adapt to various activities and accommodate a diverse range of visitors.

Landscaping plays a crucial role in the overall project design. The layout is carefully arranged to minimize ecological disruption while promoting ease of access. Parking facilities are designed for both cars and buses, allowing for efficient visitor flow. Pathways seamlessly guide guests through the site, leading to picnic areas, camping sites, and hiking trails that promote active engagement with nature. The biodiversity garden, rich with native plants, serves as a haven for local wildlife and enhances the ecological footprint of the visitor center.

Uniquely, the architectural design incorporates dynamic rooflines that not only serve practical purposes, such as rainwater management and daylighting but also add an aesthetic appeal that echoes the undulating terrain of the bog landscape. Furthermore, integrating art installations that reflect the historical and ecological narratives of the region invites visitors to engage with the heritage of the area in a meaningful way.

The Great Kennerly Bog Visitor Center is an exemplary model of how architecture can inform and inspire through design that respects and considers its natural context. By prioritizing eco-friendly practices and engaging the community, the project contributes positively to both the environment and local culture. For those interested in understanding the complexities of this architectural endeavor, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide valuable insights into the creative processes that shaped this visitor center. Engaging with these details will offer a deeper appreciation for the thoughtful ideas that define this project, illustrating how architecture can become an integral part of the natural world.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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