Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wood and Cross-Laminated Panels Creating A Seamless Connection Within A Natural Landscape

Authors:
Simone Vioglio, Giancarlo Nisi, Giacomo Crosetti
Charred Wood and Cross-Laminated Panels Creating A Seamless Connection Within A Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed from charred wood and cross-laminated panels, the bridge elegantly blends into the Gauja National Park landscape while providing a vital link for pedestrians and cyclists seeking adventure in nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The bridge utilizes charred wood to enhance durability while giving a distinct texture that integrates with the landscape.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide both structural strength and aesthetic appeal, reflecting local architectural traditions.
03
A bent A-frame design offers a unique silhouette that complements the natural contours of Gauja National Park.
04
Observation points along the bridge afford visitors panoramic views, enriching their experience of the surrounding environment.
05
Incorporating a children's playground at one access point promotes community interaction and recreational opportunities.
The Two Souls Bridge is a remarkable architectural project situated in Gauja National Park, Latvia, serving as a vital connector between urban spaces and the natural landscape. This bridge exemplifies a thoughtful integration of architecture and environment, creating a seamless point of interaction for pedestrians while enhancing the experience of those traversing its path. The project represents more than just a physical structure; it embodies a philosophy of connection—linking the urban fabric of Sigulda with the serene beauty of the surrounding park.

Functionally, the Two Souls Bridge is designed to accommodate both pedestrian and vehicular traffic, providing essential access across the park's expansive terrain. It serves as a major thoroughfare for hikers, cyclists, and local commuters, promoting outdoor activity and engagement with nature. The design is marked by its dual characteristics: it functions as a robust transit route while also inviting leisurely contemplation through its observation areas and engaging features.

One of the key aspects of this project is its intentional design language which draws inspiration from the local environment. The bridge's form and surface treatment mimic the texture and aesthetic of birch trees, establishing an immediate connection to the natural surroundings. This design approach not only enhances the visual appeal of the bridge but also reinforces the narrative of the local landscape, allowing visitors to feel immersed in the environment from the moment they step onto the bridge. The black and white glazed wooden surface harmonizes with the forest setting, ensuring that the structure remains visually grounded within its context.

The use of materials in the project is particularly noteworthy. Wood serves as the primary material for the bridge's surface, reflecting both the regional building traditions and environmental sensitivity. Accompanied by a reticulated steel frame, the architectural design achieves structural integrity while maintaining a lightness that enhances user experience. Concrete foundations anchor the bridge securely, showcasing a blend of durability and minimalism that respects the natural topography.

Another significant element of this bridge is the integration of functional areas beyond mere passage. The inclusion of an observation deck presents an opportunity for visitors to pause and appreciate the sweeping views of Gauja National Park, fostering a deeper appreciation for the landscape. A children's playground located at one access point promotes family interaction, making the bridge not just a practical tool for transportation but a space for communal recreation and connection.

The innovative design further extends to the incorporation of accessibility features, ensuring that all visitors, regardless of mobility levels, can engage with the bridge and the environment. This focus on inclusivity demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to architecture, one that prioritizes the user experience while respecting the natural and cultural context.

In summary, the Two Souls Bridge is a distinguished architectural project that stands as a testament to the integration of modern design principles with the natural environment. Its thoughtful combination of function, material, and form creates a rich experience for visitors, while its unique approach to leveraging local elements offers a model for future projects seeking to harmonize urbanity with nature. To gain a deeper understanding of this bridge and explore its architectural plans, sections, designs, and underlying ideas, readers are encouraged to delve further into the project presentation.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy