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Charred Wooden Shingles Forming a Geometric Habitat in a Latvian Wetland Visitor Center

Author:
Alvaro Novas filgueira
Charred Wooden Shingles Forming a Geometric Habitat in a Latvian Wetland Visitor Center

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and large glass panels, the visitor center seamlessly integrates sustainable materials with a geometric design that enhances the educational experience within the Great Kemeri Bog.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced charred wooden shingles to enhance weather resistance and aesthetic cohesion with the landscape.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that provide structural stability while reducing carbon footprint.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design that promotes natural ventilation and optimized daylighting throughout the interior.
04
Designed to facilitate interactive educational programs, including outdoor classrooms and exhibition areas.
05
Integrates walking paths that connect the center to the surrounding natural environment, enhancing visitor experience.
The Rhombog Visitor Center is a thoughtfully designed architectural project located within the Great Kemeri Bog in Latvia. Serving as a key access point to the Kemeri National Park, this building functions as an educational facility and a welcome center for visitors. Its architecture emphasizes connectivity with the surrounding natural landscape, providing amenities that enhance the visitor experience while fostering environmental awareness.

The design employs a geometric form characterized by sloping roofs that reflect the park's terrain. This architectural approach not only contributes to the visual identity of the structure but also facilitates natural rainwater management. Large glass panels occupy substantial portions of the façade, allowing for abundant natural light and unobstructed views of the landscape. This integration of outdoor and indoor spaces creates an immersive environment that encourages engagement with nature.

Sustainable design practices are central to the project, which utilizes local materials such as timber and stone. The selection of these materials is not only reflective of traditional Latvian architecture but also emphasizes sustainability by reducing transportation impacts. Additionally, the incorporation of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, underlines the project's environmental commitment.

Unique Design Approaches

The architectural design of the Rhombog Visitor Center prioritizes ecological sensitivity while addressing functional needs. One notable aspect is the building's adaptive thermal performance, which allows it to naturally regulate indoor temperatures. This reduces reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems, promoting energy efficiency.

Further distinguishing this project is its focus on educational programming. The layout includes exhibition spaces, classrooms, and multipurpose areas specifically designed to host workshops and guided tours. This multifunctional approach caters to a diverse audience, enhancing visitor engagement and promoting learning about local ecosystems.

The integration of walking paths around the Visitor Center extends the exploratory experience beyond its walls. Carefully curated landscaping complements the architecture, incorporating native plant species that restore and maintain local biodiversity. This thoughtful relationship between architecture and landscape showcases a commitment to creating a holistic visitor experience.

Visitor Engagement and Community Involvement

The project emphasizes community involvement and visitor engagement, often conducting workshops and educational sessions that utilize the facilities. The Visitor Center serves as a meeting point for guided nature walks, further strengthening its role as a hub for ecological education. The thoughtful design encourages interaction not only with the environment but with other visitors, fostering a sense of community.

For detailed insights into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and other architectural ideas embodied in the Rhombog Visitor Center, interested readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. This exploration will provide a comprehensive understanding of the innovative architectural designs that underpin this significant contribution to Latvia’s architectural landscape.
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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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