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Charred Wooden Shingles and Steel Framework Elevate A Sustainable Visitor Center Experience

Authors:
Nick Grimaldi, Rachel Landsberger, Eugene p Grimaldi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Steel Framework Elevate A Sustainable Visitor Center Experience

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and a steel framework, the visitor center seamlessly merges sustainable design with resilience, serving as an educational and recreational gateway to Pape Nature Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and reduce maintenance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and ventilation.
04
Integrates renewable energy systems, including solar panels and wind turbines.
05
Employs native landscaping to promote local biodiversity and minimize water use.
The Gateway to Pape Nature Park is a carefully designed architectural project that serves as a visitor entrance to the park. It emphasizes a strong connection between built structures and the surrounding natural landscape. Functioning as an informational and recreational hub, the project accommodates visitors seeking both leisure and education within the park's ecological context.

The primary architectural feature is the Sustainability Tower, which integrates renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. This aspect represents a commitment to sustainable architecture, aligning with contemporary ecological practices. The structure emphasizes durability and resilience through the use of steel as a primary material, alongside wood, glass, and stone. These materials are chosen not only for their aesthetic contributions but also for their environmental compatibility and ability to create a cohesive relationship with the park’s native flora.

Unique Design Approaches

The design of the Gateway to Pape Nature Park departs from conventional park entrances by prioritizing sustainability and user engagement. The "Barn Raising" gateway, with its five-bay structure, serves as a waypoint for visitors and invites them into the park. Architectural elements such as operable louvres provide adaptability, allowing spaces to modify based on seasonal weather conditions and user needs. This flexibility enhances user interaction with the environment while promoting energy efficiency.

Landscaping is another integral component that distinguishes this project. Native plant species are employed strategically throughout the site, enhancing biodiversity and minimizing maintenance. Gathering spaces are interspersed within pathways, fostering social interaction among visitors. The thoughtful integration of these outdoor spaces encourages exploration and promotes the park’s overarching educational objectives regarding local ecology.

Sustainability and Functionality

The project successfully merges ecological awareness with functional design. The collection and use of rainwater for irrigation reflect a commitment to resource conservation. Additionally, educational signage and interactive displays within the information center provide insights into the local ecosystem and encourage community engagement in environmental stewardship.

The Gateway to Pape Nature Park exemplifies a contemporary approach to architectural design that balances practicality with ecological responsibility. Its various components work together to create a comprehensive visitor experience, inviting exploration and understanding of the natural world.

To gain deeper insights into this project, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation of the Gateway to Pape Nature Park.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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