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Curved GLULAM Structures Enhanced by Cultural Symbolism in a Natural Park Setting

Author:
Cody Gatlin
Curved GLULAM Structures Enhanced by Cultural Symbolism in a Natural Park Setting

Project in-detail

Large curved GLULAM structures, inspired by the Daisy and Tri-Star symbols, create a harmonious integration of cultural identity and sustainability in a public park focused on recreation and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved structural elements create a dynamic flow throughout the park.
02
Local cultural symbols are integrated into the design's ornamental logo.
03
Recycled composite decking is used to minimize environmental impact.
04
Large GLULAM members allow for intricate architectural forms.
05
The design emphasizes light and shadow interaction throughout the day.

Ganja National Park features a design that responds thoughtfully to its surrounding environment and cultural context. Located in Latvia, the park serves as a space for recreation and cultural expression. The design revolves around a unique logo that blends the Daisy, the national flower of Latvia, with the Tri-Star symbol from the Historic "Freedom Monument." This integration of local symbols creates a strong sense of identity and purpose for the park.

Design Approach

The architectural form uses bold geometric shapes, particularly large curved elements that create a sense of movement within the landscape. These curves guide visitors as they explore the park, promoting a connection between the built structures and the natural setting. The design emphasizes ease of movement, encouraging people to engage with the various features of the park.

Materials and Construction

The main structural components consist of large curved GLULAM wooden members sourced from the local area. This choice supports sustainability while providing the necessary strength and flexibility to achieve complex shapes. The flooring is made from recycled composite decking, which aligns with environmental goals by reducing waste and utilizing materials that have a minimal impact on the ecosystem.

Structural Details

Concrete footers provide a firm foundation for the structure, ensuring stability and contributing to its visual appeal. Metal fasteners and tension cables are used to secure the assembly, enhancing both the safety and aesthetic of the design. These elements reflect careful engineering, balancing function with visual clarity.

Light and Shadow Interaction

The interplay of light and shadow adds depth to the experience of Ganja National Park. As the sun moves across the sky, shadows shift, creating changing patterns on the surfaces of the park. This dynamic element enriches visitors’ experiences, making each visit unique as they interact with the environment throughout the day.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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