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Curved Steel Profiles and Warm Wood Elements Enhance Connectivity in Sustainable Park Bridge

Author:
Andis Blums
Curved Steel Profiles and Warm Wood Elements Enhance Connectivity in Sustainable Park Bridge

Project in-detail

The wave-like structure of the footbridge, crafted from curved steel profiles and warm wood elements, seamlessly integrates with the landscape of Gauja National Park, facilitating connectivity for visitors exploring the area's natural beauty.
5 key facts about this project
01
The bridge features a wave-like silhouette that mirrors the natural topography of the surrounding landscape.
02
Curved steel profiles are utilized for structural support, enhancing both stability and visual appeal.
03
The deck is constructed from solid wood boards, providing a tactile connection to the natural environment.
04
Embedded lighting within the supports ensures safety while highlighting the bridge's design at night.
05
An information square serves as a focal point for educational displays about the park's ecology.
The architectural project is a footbridge designed to connect various trails and natural features within Gauja National Park in Latvia. The bridge's form and structure are carefully conceptualized to complement the surrounding landscape, integrating seamlessly into the undulating terrain that characterizes the park. This design not only enables pedestrian access but also promotes a deeper appreciation of the park's natural beauty and biodiversity.

The footbridge serves multiple functions: it facilitates movement for visitors while enhancing their engagement with the environment. Designed to support foot traffic, the bridge connects to key areas such as hiking trails and viewpoints, strategically positioned to maximize scenic interactions. The design also incorporates educational components, with information boards that provide insights into the park's ecological features.

One notable aspect of the project is its unique waveform structure. This form mimics the natural contours of the surrounding landscape, creating a visual dialogue between the built and natural elements. The design utilizes steel profiles to ensure structural stability while allowing for an elegant curvature. The deck features curved solid wood boards, providing a warm and inviting surface that resonates with the organic materials found in the park. This combination of materials not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also reinforces the bridge's integration with its environment.

Another distinguishing feature of the design is the inclusion of lighting elements embedded within the curvilinear supports. This design choice enhances safety during nighttime use while adding a subtle glow that highlights the structure's unique shape. Furthermore, the overall project promotes sustainability by utilizing locally sourced materials, which strengthens the connection between the architecture and the regional landscape.

The bridge encompasses various important components, including an information square designed to serve as a gathering point for visitors. This space facilitates orientation and access to various trails and amenities within the park. The bridge's architecture allows for unobstructed views of the Gauja River and surrounding topography, engaging users in an immersive experience of the natural environment.

This footbridge exemplifies a contemporary approach to architectural design within a natural context. Its sensitive integration into the landscape, along with the use of materials that resonate with the local ecosystem, differentiates it from conventional structures. The project reflects a commitment to enhancing user experience while promoting environmental awareness, establishing a sustainable infrastructure that harmonizes with the park.

For a more detailed exploration into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas behind the project, we encourage you to review the project presentation. Dive deeper into how this design effectively interacts with and enhances the natural beauty of Gauja National Park.
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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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