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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Shape a Sustainable Visitor Center Experience

Authors:
Arddy Berylian, Tirza Hutagalung
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Shape a Sustainable Visitor Center Experience

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles coupled with cross-laminated timber panels create a distinctive visitor center that merges seamlessly with the natural landscape while promoting sustainable engagement with the environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance weather resistance while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to reduced construction time and sustainability.
03
The bent A-frame design minimizes structural weight and maximizes spatial efficiency.
04
An integrated water feature in the courtyard promotes biodiversity and visitor engagement.
05
Pathway networks facilitate exploration and direct interaction with the surrounding landscape.
The Timber Pavilion in Kemeri National Park serves as a multifunctional visitor center designed to enhance the experience of tourists in a natural setting. The project emphasizes a strong connection with the surrounding landscape through its architectural form and materiality. The Pavilion aims to provide amenities that promote year-round engagement with nature, reflecting careful consideration of local ecological and cultural contexts.

Sustainable Architecture with Local Materials

A key aspect of the Timber Pavilion is its use of locally sourced timber, showcasing traditional Latvian building techniques while rejecting heavy construction materials that could detract from the environment. The building's structure is elevated on a concrete base to mitigate moisture penetration, ensuring durability while maintaining a lightweight aesthetic. The extensive use of glass in the facade enhances transparency, creating a visual link between indoor spaces and the natural beauty outside. This emphasis on natural light and views establishes an environment conducive to leisure and exploration.

Central to the design is the courtyard, which acts as a gathering space for visitors and facilitates social interaction. This area is framed by gently flowing contours that blend seamlessly with the surrounding topography. Several different pathways systemically guide visitors through the site, promoting exploratory engagement while facilitating access to various facilities, including information centers, exhibition spaces, and wellness areas.

Innovative Climate Resilience Features

The Timber Pavilion integrates innovative design strategies aimed at climate resilience. Large cantilevered roofs provide necessary shelter, enabling the space to be used in various weather conditions. Outdoor features such as water elements enrich the sensory experience and create microclimates that enhance visitor comfort. The rooftop observation deck is designed to enable panoramic views of the park, allowing visitors to appreciate the extensive landscape.

The facility is programmed for diverse uses across the seasons. Outdoor swimming pools and recreational areas encourage summer activities, while indoor spaces are adaptable for winter engagement. This adaptability supports the Pavilion's ongoing function as a community hub, fostering local and visitor interactions through educational workshops and cultural events.

For a deeper understanding of the Timber Pavilion's architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, explore the detailed project presentation. This analysis provides foundational insights into the project that will enhance appreciation of its design and functionality.
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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
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