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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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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

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