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Charred Wooden Shingles Enhancing Community Connection in Sustainable Museum Design

Author:
Ewelina Gapa
Charred Wooden Shingles Enhancing Community Connection in Sustainable Museum Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and locally sourced timber, this design seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings to create a community-focused museum dedicated to the cultural significance of horses.
5 key facts about this project
01
The museum incorporates a green roof, enhancing energy efficiency and promoting biodiversity.
02
Locally sourced timber is featured prominently to reduce transportation impact and support regional craftsmanship.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide natural fire resistance while blending harmoniously with the surrounding landscape.
04
The bent A-frame design allows for distinctive architectural lines that enhance both aesthetics and structural integrity.
05
Interactive exhibition spaces are designed to facilitate community engagement with equine heritage and education.
The Omuli Museum of the Horse represents a thoughtful integration of architecture and environmental consciousness situated in the northern part of Livonia, Latvia, specifically within the Yozhino-Biosphere Reserve. This project is designed to serve multiple functions, primarily as an educational and cultural institution dedicated to showcasing the history and significance of horses in the region. With a focus on sustainability and community engagement, the museum aims to provide visitors with immersive experiences that reflect both the natural landscape and the cultural heritage of horse-related activities.

The architectural design embodies a linear structure that harmonizes with its surroundings while promoting a seamless visitor experience. This approach not only respects the natural contour of the land but also encourages exploration and interaction. The museum’s layout is divided into several key areas, each serving a distinct purpose yet collectively fostering a cohesive narrative about horses and their cultural impact. These zones include exhibition spaces stocked with artifacts and educational displays, an auditorium for lectures and community events, and artistic spaces designed to encourage creativity among visitors.

A significant aspect of the design is its commitment to sustainability through the careful selection of materials. Locally sourced wood features prominently in the construction, emphasizing both ecological responsibility and local craftsmanship. The use of special glass not only enhances the natural lighting within the exhibition areas but also plays a critical role in energy efficiency, ensuring that the building remains environmentally friendly. The incorporation of ecological sidewalk flooring bolsters the project’s green initiatives, creating pathways that blend seamlessly with the landscape.

Landscaping is another vital component of the project, incorporating a green roof that emphasizes ecological sustainability while providing educational opportunities for visitors. The museum’s outdoor spaces are designed to be inviting, with expertly planned walkways and an entrance square that encourages social interaction and connection with nature. This aspect of the design underlines the museum's role as a community hub rather than just an educational facility.

The Omuli Museum of the Horse employs unique design strategies that respond to both the community’s needs and the surrounding natural environment. For instance, the adaptive use of existing building footprints not only preserves historical contexts but also minimizes disruption to the site. This approach allows for a level of continuity and respect for the landscape that is often overlooked in new constructions. Additionally, the museum’s function as an educational platform encourages local engagement, fostering a deeper appreciation for the history of equine culture.

By blending contemporary architectural ideas with sustainable practices, the project establishes itself as a prominent example of how architecture can effectively serve community interests while remaining in harmony with the natural world. The museum's design reflects a thoughtful consideration of local identity and environmental impact, reinforcing the significance of horses in Livonia's cultural narrative.

The Omuli Museum of the Horse exemplifies what is possible when design is approached with an understanding of its context and purpose. As such, it becomes essential for readers and design enthusiasts to explore further into the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs to appreciate the full scope and depth of this innovative project. By delving into these elements, individuals can gain a richer understanding of the architectural ideas that have shaped the museum and contributed to its goal of education and community engagement.
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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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