Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Panels Create a Visitor Center Harmonizing with Nature

Authors:
Kinga Komáromi, Attila Szabó, Gergely Vörös, Kamilla Zámbó
Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Panels Create a Visitor Center Harmonizing with Nature

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and structural insulated panels, the visitor center seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings, offering an engaging gateway to the unique ecosystem of the Great Kemeri Bog.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates structural insulated panels to improve energy efficiency and insulation.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that harmonizes with the surrounding landscape.
04
Integrates a rainwater harvesting system to promote sustainability and water conservation.
05
Designed with a visitor-centric layout that guides guests through a natural experience.
The Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Center is a thoughtfully designed architectural project situated within the scenic Great Kemeri Bog National Park in Latvia. This visitor center embodies an aspiration to create a space that facilitates interaction between visitors and the natural environment while promoting a sustainable approach to architecture. The project serves as a pivotal access point to the unique ecosystem of the bog, offering various amenities that enhance the visitor experience while maintaining respect for the surrounding landscape.

The design of the visitor center is articulate, featuring distinct structures that collectively accommodate visitor needs. Central to this arrangement are the Visitor Box and the Service Box. The Visitor Box, sized at 10 meters by 10 meters, serves multiple functions, including ticketing, restroom facilities, and a coffee shop. The design focuses on creating a welcoming atmosphere, with a layout that guides visitors through a funnel-like entrance, easing their transition from the man-made environment into the richness of the bog. This clever design choice not only enhances visitor flow but also establishes a symbolic connection to nature.

Adjacent to the Visitor Box, the Service Box houses essential facilities for camping visitors, featuring a compact design of 5 meters by 5 meters. This smaller structure focuses on function without creating visual clutter, ensuring that it blends seamlessly into the landscape. Both structures employ a cohesive architectural language that uses natural materials to enhance their relationship with the environment.

One of the unique features of the Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Center is the framing structure that directs visitors deeper into the forest. This design element serves a dual purpose: it enhances the visitor's journey by providing pathways through the trees and establishes a visual dialogue with the natural surroundings. The framing structure encourages exploration and invites visitors to engage with the varying scales of nature, highlighting the importance of fostering a connection between people and their environment.

In terms of materiality, the project leverages sustainable resources to ensure minimal ecological impact. The extensive use of wood in the design not only contributes to the aesthetic appeal but also emphasizes the project's commitment to sustainability. Concrete forms a stable foundation, essential for the sometimes marshy terrain of the bog. Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) offer energy-efficient solutions through effective thermal insulation, significantly reducing the energy use of the buildings. Additionally, the incorporation of photovoltaic panels promotes energy self-sufficiency, and rainwater collection systems further enhance the project's ecological credentials.

The architectural design adopts a restrained and informed approach, focusing on function while engaging meaningfully with the landscape. By prioritizing sustainability and visitor experience, the Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Center successfully creates a space that is both practical and enriching. The design encourages visitors to delve deeper into the beauty of their surroundings, reinforcing the idea that architecture can play a crucial role in environmental education and awareness.

As you explore the project further, consider reviewing the various architectural plans, sections, and designs that detail these approaches and ideas. The Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Center not only serves as a gateway to an extraordinary natural landscape but also stands as an example of contemporary architecture that is sensitive to both its site and its users. For a more in-depth understanding of its architectural intricacies, we invite you to delve into the detailed presentation of this project.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy