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Charred Wooden Shingles and Reclaimed Timber Enriching a Visitor Centre Among Coastal Wetlands

Authors:
Karlis Kukainis, Linda Ledina, Jatiphak Boonmun
Charred Wooden Shingles and Reclaimed Timber Enriching a Visitor Centre Among Coastal Wetlands

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and reclaimed timber, the design seamlessly integrates with the coastal wetland landscape while serving as an educational visitor centre that fosters environmental awareness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from 100% reclaimed timber, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
The bent A-frame design enhances structural stability while blending with the landscape.
04
Integrated green roofs promote biodiversity and thermal insulation.
05
Visitor pathways meander through landscaped gardens, enhancing the nature experience.
The Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Centre is a strategically designed architectural project located within Kemeri National Park in Latvia. This facility serves as a gateway for visitors to engage with the unique biodiversity of the bog ecosystem. Functioning as an educational hub, the centre promotes environmental awareness while providing amenities for leisure and exploration. The design aims to integrate seamlessly with the natural landscape while offering educational resources and recreational opportunities.

Sustainability is a core principle of the project, demonstrated through the use of local and renewable materials. The architectural design incorporates reclaimed timber for structural elements and facades, thereby minimizing environmental impact. Green roofs enhance insulation and promote biodiversity by supporting native vegetation. The dynamic form of the buildings mimics natural elements, creating a unified interaction between the structures and the surrounding landscape.

Zoning is a critical component of the design, with distinct areas for different visitor activities. The centre includes a café that overlooks the bog, an information hub to educate guests about the local flora and fauna, and various outdoor recreational spaces. These features are intentionally positioned to maximize visitor engagement with the environment, fostering a sense of connection to nature.

The unique architectural approach of the Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Centre lies in its emphasis on experiential design. The pathways leading to the centre guide visitors through landscaped gardens, enhancing their journey before they even enter. The combination of functional spaces with natural elements enriches the user experience, allowing for a deeper understanding of the ecosystem.

Materiality also reflects thoughtful design choices. The use of burnt timber cladding not only provides aesthetics but also enhances durability against weather conditions. Additionally, concrete foundations ensure structural stability while minimizing disruption to the natural site. The integration of these materials with careful craftsmanship showcases a commitment to maintaining a balance between human need and ecological preservation.

The Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Centre exemplifies a comprehensive design strategy that prioritizes sustainability, functionality, and visitor interaction. Its architectural elements create a cohesive experience that aligns with the ecological significance of its location. For a deeper understanding of this architectural project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and design insights, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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