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Charred Wood Shingles and Glass Atrium Define a Community-Centric Museum Emphasizing Equestrian Heritage

Author:
Hon chi Leung
Charred Wood Shingles and Glass Atrium Define a Community-Centric Museum Emphasizing Equestrian Heritage

Project in-detail

Emphasizing sustainability through charred wood shingles and a spacious glass atrium, the architectural design creates an engaging environment that beautifully showcases equestrian heritage while fostering community connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The museum incorporates charred wood shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
A spacious glass atrium serves as a central gathering space, promoting natural light and connectivity.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels emphasize sustainable building practices while providing structural strength.
04
Interactive exhibits are designed to engage visitors deeply with the equestrian arts and heritage.
05
Artist collaboration spaces allow for dynamic community engagement and creative exchange.
The Omuli Museum, located in Northern Latvia, represents a thoughtful intersection of cultural heritage and modern architectural design focused on the equestrian arts. This facility serves not only as a repository of knowledge related to horse breeding and equestrian sports but also as a community-centric space that engages visitors of all backgrounds. Through its careful planning, the museum creates an environment conducive to learning, exploration, and appreciation of the rich equestrian tradition within Latvia.

The architectural design of the Omuli Museum features a minimalist aesthetic that reflects careful consideration of its natural surroundings. Its rectangular layout consists of two principal wings linked by a central glass atrium, fostering an open and inviting atmosphere. This design effectively utilizes transparency to bring in natural light, creating a bright and welcoming space for visitors as they transition from the external environment into the heart of the museum. The glass atrium not only visually connects different parts of the museum but also emphasizes the relationship between the indoor exhibits and the natural landscape, integrating the architectural project with its setting.

Materials play a significant role in the overall expression of the museum's design. The use of dark wood cladding on the façade resonates with the regional architectural style, while simultaneously providing a textural contrast to the sleek glass elements. Concrete is employed for structural integrity and flooring, yielding a robust framework that supports flexible usage. The incorporation of generous glass surfaces enhances the viewer's experience, allowing for expansive views of the surrounding forest while filling interior spaces with natural light. In addition, elements such as brown metal, terrazzo flooring, and wooden veneered surfaces contribute warmth and character to the museum, creating a welcoming ambiance that invites visitor interaction.

A unique feature of the Omuli Museum is its “WOW” effect area, designed as an experiential hub where visitors can engage with interactive exhibits showcasing the intricacies of equestrian sports. This space encourages a visceral connection to the art and athleticism of horse riding, facilitating high levels of engagement from the audience. Furthermore, the design incorporates artist communication bridges, spaces specifically curated to foster collaboration among artists, enhancing the museum's role as a cultural venue.

The zoning of the museum is carefully considered, providing distinct areas for exhibitions, community events, and administration. By ensuring intuitive navigation and appropriate spatial delineation, the architects promote a fluid visitor experience. Common areas are designed for social interaction, facilitating community involvement and making the museum a gathering place for various stakeholders.

Sustainability is another hallmark of this architectural project, with features that reflect a commitment to environmentally responsible design. The implementation of solar panels underscores the museum's dedication to reducing its ecological footprint. This conscious effort towards sustainability ensures that the museum not only serves as a cultural landmark but also exemplifies modern architectural practices that prioritize environmental consciousness.

In summary, the Omuli Museum stands as a significant architectural achievement, embodying a rich cultural narrative while effectively catering to its functional needs. Its thoughtful design integrates various elements—materiality, spatial organization, and sustainability—making it a model for future projects that aim to merge cultural significance with contemporary architectural trends. To appreciate the intricate details and innovative approaches in the Omuli Museum, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas that illustrate the nuances of this fascinating project.
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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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