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Cross-Laminated Timber Pathway Weaving Through the Latvian Landscape With Charred Wood Accents

Authors:
Nichola Barrington-leach, Katie Albertucci, Chris Bisset
Cross-Laminated Timber Pathway Weaving Through the Latvian Landscape With Charred Wood Accents

Project in-detail

A cross-laminated timber pathway gracefully meanders through the diverse landscapes of Latvia, complemented by charred wooden accents that enhance its ecological harmony while inviting visitors to engage deeply with the surrounding nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The promenade features a modular construction approach, allowing for efficient assembly and reduced waste on-site.
02
Elevated platforms provide varied perspectives, enhancing visitor engagement with the surrounding landscapes.
03
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and a harmonious aesthetic with natural surroundings.
04
Natural contours are followed closely, minimizing disruption to the existing ecosystem and promoting ecological balance.
05
Perforated metal walkways are integrated to ensure safety while maintaining visibility and connection with the environment.
The Great Ķemeri Promenade is a thoughtful architectural project set within the serene landscapes of Ķemeri National Park in Latvia. Designed to enhance the visitor experience while being sensitive to the surrounding natural environment, this promenade represents a harmonious interaction between human activity and nature. The architectural design reflects an understanding of the park's ecology, utilizing a layout that encourages exploration while promoting environmental stewardship.

The function of the promenade is multifaceted. It acts as a pathway, guiding visitors through diverse landscapes—from lush forests to tranquil waters—while providing opportunities for recreation, observation, and engagement with nature. The design promotes accessibility, ensuring that a broad range of visitors can navigate the site comfortably. Rather than presenting a singular destination, the promenade unfolds as a journey, intertwining various experiences and moments of reflection along its course.

Important elements of the project include the careful choice of materials and structural forms. Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) serves as the primary building material, celebrated for its sustainability and structural efficiency. By opting for CLT, the design minimizes environmental impact while offering durability and aesthetic warmth. The modular nature of the building components allows for streamlined construction while creating an intimate connection with the surroundings.

The promenade's design features elevated platforms and footings that allow visitors to engage with the site's natural dynamics. The trajectory of the promenade is kept low to the ground in many areas, echoing the natural contours of the landscape and encouraging a sense of immersion within the forest. This approach invites travelers to connect with their environment in a visceral way, as the structure integrates seamlessly with the topography.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the Great Ķemeri Promenade. Rather than dominating the landscape with towering structures, the architecture respects and enriches the natural setting, allowing for unobtrusive observation points that frame the beauty of the park. The integration of perforated metal walkways contributes to both safety and visual interest, creating a delicate balance between function and form.

The project also emphasizes a sensory journey with its various segments. As visitors traverse the promenade, they transition through distinct landscapes, each designed to evoke different feelings and interactions. The design plays with elevation to shift perspectives, inviting visitors to contemplate the vast sky above and the serene waters nearby. This deliberate approach to changing viewpoints enhances the overall experience of the park, encouraging visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant ecosystem.

The Great Ķemeri Promenade stands as a testament to contemporary architecture's ability to engage with natural landscapes. By grounding its design principles in sustainability and accessibility, the project serves not only as a means of movement but also as a platform for learning and appreciation of nature. For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this design, the architectural plans and sections provide valuable insights into the thoughtful consideration of form, function, and materials that define the project. Engaging with these architectural ideas can offer a deeper understanding of the nuanced relationship between design and environment within this unique undertaking. Readers are encouraged to explore the presentation for a comprehensive view of the project and its intricate details.
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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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