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Charred Wooden Shingles and Rainwater Harvesting in a Visitor Center Design

Author:
Christopher Taurasi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Rainwater Harvesting in a Visitor Center Design
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and a rainwater harvesting system, the design creates a sustainable visitor center that seamlessly integrates with the natural landscape of Kemeri National Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system integrated into the roof design.
03
Features extensive use of cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize natural light and views.
05
Preserves existing landscape elements to maintain ecological integrity.

## Overview

The Gateway to Kemeri is situated at the entrance of Kemeri National Park, facilitating a vital connection between urban spaces and the expansive natural landscape. The design aims to create an inviting atmosphere that encourages exploration and engagement with the park's rich ecology. By integrating natural elements into the architectural framework, the project fosters harmony with the surrounding environment while serving as a point of interaction for visitors.

## Material Selection

The architectural identity is strongly influenced by the choice of materials, prioritizing sustainability and functionality. Wood is extensively used for its ecological attributes and aesthetic appeal, providing a lightweight and sturdy frame that resonates with the forested context. Concrete forms the structural backbone, ensuring durability and stability, while glass is incorporated to enhance natural lighting and offer views of the landscape, reinforcing the connection to nature. Metal elements, primarily utilized for structural purposes, introduce a contemporary aspect to the overall rustic theme.

## Spatial Organization and Climatic Considerations

The spatial layout effectively organizes functional areas, with public spaces positioned prominently at the front to encourage visitor interaction, while private and support areas are located towards the rear, optimizing movement flow. The design considers seasonal climatic variations through strategic placements of walls and openings, harnessing solar gain in winter and promoting passive cooling in summer. Features such as overhangs create shaded areas, enhancing comfort and reducing energy consumption.

Innovative roof designs incorporate complex geometries that facilitate rainwater capture and contribute to the site's visual character. The project preserves existing trees and applies biophilic design principles, reinforcing the interaction between built forms and the natural environment, ultimately enriching the visitor experience in Kemeri National Park.

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

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The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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