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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glazed Openings Enhance a Community Hub in Latvia

Author:
Tetsuya Fujioka
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glazed Openings Enhance a Community Hub in Latvia

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and expansive glazed openings, the Visitor Center serves as a sustainable hub that fosters community interaction while blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings in Latvia.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes space and facilitates natural ventilation.
04
Includes expansive glazed openings that provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
05
Promotes community engagement through versatile public and private zones designed for diverse activities.
The Visitor Center project is a thoughtfully designed architectural structure nestled within the natural landscapes of Latvia. Its primary function is to serve as an informative and engaging hub for visitors, providing essential amenities and information while fostering a connection with the surrounding environment. Central to the design is a commitment to sustainability and the integration of local architectural traditions, showcased through materials and spatial organization.

One of the key elements of the Visitor Center is its gabled roof, a design choice that pays homage to traditional Latvian architecture while serving a functional purpose. This roof shape facilitates effective rainwater drainage and enhances the overall durability of the structure. The use of large glazed openings provides ample natural lighting and connects indoor spaces to the scenic outdoor landscape. The building employs a reinforced concrete (RC) structure, ensuring stability while allowing minimalistic design aesthetics.

The project includes a variety of zones tailored to different visitor needs. The public zone comprises a ticket counter, information desk, café, and a prominent terrace designed for outdoor enjoyment. This terrace is notable for its open design, which integrates the outdoor landscape with the interior of the building. The private zone contains essential facilities, promoting comfort and privacy for visitors who engage in recreational activities such as camping or nature exploration.

Unique Design Approaches

The Visitor Center distinguishes itself through its integration with the natural environment. The layout promotes a seamless transition from the parking area to the entrance and encourages exploration of the surrounding landscape. The design embraces flexibility, catering to diverse visitor demographics. Spaces within the center are designed to accommodate a range of activities, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

A notable design feature is the careful orientation of the building, which maximizes passive solar heating and natural ventilation. This approach not only improves energy efficiency but also creates pleasant conditions within the center, minimizing reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems. The selection of local timber for finishes complements the building's structure and aligns with the project's overarching theme of connecting architecture to nature.

Emphasis on Sustainability

Moreover, the Visitor Center exemplifies a commitment to sustainability through the use of eco-friendly materials and construction practices. The design prioritizes the use of locally sourced resources, reducing transportation impacts and supporting regional economies. The incorporation of natural materials, such as wood, reflects the beauty of the surrounding environment and enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the center.

The Visitor Center stands as a testament to the potential of architecture to bridge the gap between built environments and the natural world. The design elevates the user experience while maintaining a focus on sustainability, functionality, and local context. For those interested in exploring this project further, detailed architectural plans, sections, and design ideas are available for review to gain deeper insights into the architectural approach and conceptual framework.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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