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Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glass Create a Sustainable Visitor Hub Amidst Natural Landscapes

Authors:
Michał Madeja, Maria Mrugalska, Dominika Wąsik, Dawid Roszkowski
Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glass Create a Sustainable Visitor Hub Amidst Natural Landscapes

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass panels, the visitor center seamlessly integrates into the Kemeri National Park landscape while offering an educational hub for exploring the region’s unique ecology.
5 key facts about this project
01
The visitor center features charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability while providing a distinct aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are extensively used, promoting sustainability through efficient material use.
03
A bent A-frame design allows for optimal natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Landscaped pathways connect the structures, designed with native plantings to integrate with the local ecosystem.
05
Educational spaces within emphasize interactive displays focused on the park's unique ecological systems.
The Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Center is an architectural project situated within the lush expanse of Kemeri National Park in Latvia. This structure serves not only as a functional hub for visitors but also as a thoughtful integration of architecture into the natural landscape. The design reflects a commitment to sustainability and an appreciation for the local culture, functioning as both an educational center and a space for relaxation and interaction with the surrounding environment.

At its core, the project embodies the idea of harmony between architecture and nature. The visitor center consists of three distinct but cohesive structures that are carefully positioned to minimize disruption to the ecosystem. This thoughtful arrangement allows the buildings to blend into the landscape, creating a sense of continuity between constructed space and the natural world. The architecture employs traditional Latvian elements as a reference point, grounding the design in regional heritage while also presenting a modern interpretation.

The primary structure, known as the Visitor Center Pavilion, is designed as the central gathering space. It houses a multipurpose exhibition room that showcases the unique ecology of the bog, offering engaging educational displays tailored to visitors of all ages. Adjacent to this space, a common room invites guests to pause and reflect, fostering a communal atmosphere reminiscent of traditional gathering places found throughout Latvia. The café serves as an additional amenity, providing refreshments and encouraging visitors to linger and share their experiences after exploring the park trails.

Each of the supporting structures plays a vital role in enhancing the overall functionality of the visitor center. Pathways and landscaped areas connect these buildings, establishing a fluid movement through the site that encourages exploration. Curvilinear pathways guide visitors through carefully curated gardens populated with indigenous plants and wildflowers, further emphasizing the park's natural beauty and ecological diversity.

The materials selected for the construction of the visitor center were chosen for their ability to blend harmoniously with the surroundings. The use of wood, specifically a local timber species, speaks to the warmth and familiarity of the natural environment. Concrete elements provide a solid foundation and structural integrity, while strategically placed glass panels serve to enhance natural lighting and create unobstructed views of the stunning landscape. This combination of materials not only reinforces the building's durability but also creates a welcoming atmosphere that invites visitors to engage with both the architecture and the park.

A unique aspect of this project is its commitment to environmental sustainability. The design incorporates features that reduce energy consumption and promote an eco-friendly approach to architecture. By utilizing local materials and crafting a structure that minimizes its ecological footprint, the visitor center not only serves its intended function but also stands as a model for responsible design practices.

The overall aesthetic is characterized by a modern yet understated approach. Large windows promote a connection between indoor and outdoor environments, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty that surrounds them. Interior spaces are marked by a sense of calm, facilitated by the simplicity of the design and the use of natural materials that foster a serene atmosphere.

In summary, the Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Center represents a deliberate and thoughtful exploration of architectural design that respects both the environment and cultural heritage. Its functional spaces prioritize visitor experience while promoting education about the unique ecological systems found within Kemeri National Park. Readers interested in further exploring the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas behind this project are encouraged to delve deeper into the presentation of the visitor center to gain comprehensive insights into its innovative design and execution.
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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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