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Curvilinear Timber Pathway Integrating Acetylated Wood Within a Natural Landscape

Author:
Don-marc pascal Oppenländer
Curvilinear Timber Pathway Integrating Acetylated Wood Within a Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Featuring a curvilinear form crafted from acetylated wood, the design seamlessly integrates with the landscape to facilitate movement between urban areas and the natural environment of Gauja National Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear design mimics natural landforms to enhance aesthetic integration with the landscape.
02
Built primarily from acetylated wood, ensuring durability and environmental sustainability.
03
Incorporates a cable-stayed structure, optimizing load distribution while minimizing material use.
04
Signage is discreetly integrated within structural elements, promoting visual continuity.
05
Features dedicated pedestrian pathways alongside vehicular access for enhanced safety.
The Gauja Riverbridge is an architectural project located in Latvia, connecting urban areas to the natural landscape of Gauja National Park. The bridge serves a dual purpose, facilitating both pedestrian and vehicular movement, while promoting accessibility to recreational areas. The project prioritizes an integration with the surrounding environment, ensuring it complements the natural flow of the river and preserves the ecological integrity of the site.

Unique Design Approaches

A notable characteristic of the Gauja Riverbridge is its organic form. The design incorporates flowing lines that reflect natural shapes, distinguishing it from conventional bridge structures. This approach invites users to engage with the environment actively, enhancing their experience of both the journey and the destination. By utilizing curves instead of rigid geometric forms, the bridge creates a soft silhouette against the landscape.

The project employs sustainable materials extensively, emphasizing environmentally responsible practices. Key materials include timber, stainless steel, acetylated wood, and wooden cladding. Timber not only acts as a primary structural element but also aligns with the project's sustainability goals, as it contributes to carbon storage. The bridge features a cable-stayed design, where cables and pylons are optimized for load distribution, maintaining structural integrity while ensuring aesthetic harmony with the site.

Functional Elements and Architectural Details

The function of the Gauja Riverbridge extends beyond transportation; it serves as a gathering point and viewpoint for visitors. The layout incorporates dedicated pedestrian pathways, ensuring safety and ease of movement for users. Integrated landscaping designs emphasize the seamless transition from the bridge to the natural surroundings, providing users with direct access to the park's features.

Architectural sections and plans reveal thoughtful design considerations, including elevation changes that lead to a gradual ascent, enhancing accessibility for all users. The placement of signage aids navigation without disrupting the visual flow of the structure. Furthermore, the bridge's support system is designed to minimize its environmental impact, underscoring the project’s commitment to sustainability while fulfilling essential transport demands.

For further understanding of the intricacies involved in the Gauja Riverbridge project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and design elements to gain deeper insights into its construction and design philosophy.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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