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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Blending Into a Natural Landscape Visitor Center

Author:
Teymur Melikov
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Blending Into a Natural Landscape Visitor Center

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design integrates seamlessly into the Kemeri National Park landscape while serving as an educational hub for visitors to engage with the unique biodiversity of the bog.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that allows for expansive interior spaces with minimal material use.
04
Strategically positioned large windows provide unobstructed views of the surrounding bog landscape.
05
Promotes ecological education through interactive exhibition spaces dedicated to local biodiversity.
The Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Center is an architectural project situated in Kemeri National Park, Latvia. This facility is designed to enhance visitor engagement with the natural landscape, providing educational resources, dining facilities, and communal spaces while maintaining a harmonious relationship with the environment. The architecture reflects both local building traditions and contemporary design principles, creating a structure that blends seamlessly into its surroundings.

The building's layout emphasizes functionality with a well-defined spatial organization. Key areas within the visitor center include informative exhibition rooms that showcase the local ecology and history, dining areas that facilitate visitor interaction, and staff living quarters that offer a practical solution for operational needs. The use of large windows throughout the building ensures that natural light floods the interior, creating a connection between the indoor spaces and the serene outdoor landscape.

Integration with the Natural Environment
The unique design approach of the Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Center lies in its thoughtful integration with the surrounding bog landscape. The structure employs a biomimetic design philosophy, using materials and forms that reflect the natural environment. The choice of wood as the primary construction material is particularly significant as it echoes traditional Latvian architecture while promoting sustainability. This decision not only aligns the building with local resources but also enhances its environmental performance.

The design also focuses on creating dynamic spaces that respond to user activity. For example, the communal dining areas are strategically placed with panoramic views, encouraging visitors to enjoy meals while experiencing the beauty of the bog. Additionally, the flexible layout allows for various uses, such as educational workshops or communal gatherings, thus enhancing the functionality of the visitor center.

Distinctive Architectural Features
The architectural design incorporates modular elements that mimic the scattered layout of traditional rural buildings in Latvia. This configuration supports a non-linear flow, contrasting with more conventional visitor centers that adopt an enclosed format. The resulting spaces facilitate interaction among visitors while maintaining a sense of privacy when desired.

The visitor center's emphasis on transparency is evident through its extensive use of glass, blurring the boundaries between inside and outside. This design choice immerses visitors in the wetland's ambiance, reinforcing the center’s mission to promote ecological awareness and appreciation for the natural world. The architectural sections effectively communicate the design's relationship with the terrain, providing insights into both functional and aesthetic considerations.

To explore the architectural plans, sections, and design details further, interested readers are encouraged to delve into the project presentation. This will offer a more comprehensive understanding of the architectural ideas and construction techniques employed in the Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Center.
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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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