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Curved Glazed Facade Supported by Sustainable Timber Frames in a Scenic National Landscape

Author:
Leonid Emdin
Curved Glazed Facade Supported by Sustainable Timber Frames in a Scenic National Landscape

Project in-detail

Curved glazed facades are elegantly supported by a framework of sustainably sourced timber, creating a harmonious pedestrian and cyclist crossing that enhances access within the scenic expanse of Gauja National Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved structure mimics natural landscapes to minimize visual disruption.
02
Integrates large glass panels to enhance natural lighting and visibility.
03
Utilizes locally sourced timber to promote sustainability and regional connection.
04
Designed with educational panels to inform visitors about local biodiversity.
05
Elevated height allows unobstructed passage for vehicles beneath the bridge.
The Gauja National Park Footbridge is a meticulously designed architectural project that integrates infrastructure with the natural landscape of Gauja National Park in Latvia. This pedestrian and cyclist bridge emphasizes both functionality and aesthetic harmony, facilitating safe transport while enhancing the user experience within the park's scenic environment. The project stands as a thoughtful response to the growing need for accessibility in natural settings, promoting outdoor activities and fostering connections between people and nature.

Structural Innovation and Material Use

A key aspect of the footbridge is its structural innovation. The design employs a series of 13 oval frames that establish the bridge’s distinctive form. These frames are arranged to create a smooth, flowing architecture that replicates natural shapes, thus ensuring minimal disruption to the existing environment. The primary materials include wood, reinforced concrete, and glass, which are chosen not only for their durability but also for their ability to blend into the park’s natural surroundings. Wood serves as the main structural component, offering warmth and an organic feel. Reinforced concrete elements provide foundational strength, ensuring the bridge can withstand environmental stresses. The use of expansive glass allows for natural light penetration, making the bridge feel open and inviting. This combination of materials exemplifies a design philosophy that seeks balance between human-made structures and landscape.

User-Centric Design and Environmental Considerations

The footbridge prioritizes user experience through its strategic design features. With a height of approximately 4.5 meters, the structure allows for unobstructed vehicular passage beneath, ensuring it integrates seamlessly into the traffic flow of the area. Features such as integrated information panels educate visitors about the park's biodiversity and cultural history, enhancing engagement and awareness. The design also considers sustainability by utilizing locally sourced wood and promoting eco-friendly transportation options, encouraging healthier lifestyle choices among visitors.

What distinguishes this project from typical footbridge designs is its emphasis on creating an immersive experience for users. The fluidity of the bridge not only facilitates mobility but also encourages pausing and appreciating the surrounding natural beauty. This multifaceted approach sets the Gauja National Park Footbridge apart from conventional designs that often focus solely on functionality without considering enhanced user interaction with the environment.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the Gauja National Park Footbridge, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. An examination of these elements reveals the thoughtfulness of the architecture and invites a deeper appreciation for the integration of human activity within a natural landscape.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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
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