Get inspired!

17,363 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Elevated Canopy Experience Crafted With Coniferous Timber and Sustainable Design Principles

Authors:
Pimrampha Saenyakorn, Cattlee Wattanasinpanich
Elevated Canopy Experience Crafted With Coniferous Timber and Sustainable Design Principles

Project in-detail

Rising twelve meters above the landscape, the visitor center employs a modular timber frame structure with expansive glass facades to create an educational facility that enhances ecological awareness in Latvia's Kemeri National Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rises twelve meters to simulate a forest canopy experience.
02
Uses a modular design with repetitive frame boxes for flexibility.
03
Incorporates large glass panels for unobstructed natural views.
04
Integrates seasonal landscape features to enhance biodiversity education.
05
Constructed primarily with locally sourced coniferous wood for context.
The Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Center is a well-considered architectural project located within Latvia's Kemeri National Park. Designed to serve as an educational facility, the center provides a platform for visitors to engage with the unique ecology of the bog environment. Its primary function is to inform and educate the public about the ecological significance of the area while promoting responsible tourism practices.

The structure integrates seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, designed to reflect the experience of walking among trees. The building rises six stories, reaching a maximum height of 12 meters, allowing visitors to ascend through organized levels that facilitate progressive interactions with the environment. Each floor serves distinct purposes; the ground level features information desks and introductory exhibits, the second floor includes a café and exhibition space with expansive views, and the top level serves as an observation deck, providing insights into the bog's ecosystem from above.

One unique aspect of this project is its modular design, characterized by repeating frame boxes that echo the natural patterns found in local flora. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic quality but also allows for adaptable functional spaces, making it suitable for diverse activities. The choice of materials further distinguishes the center; the predominant use of local coniferous wood, such as pine and spruce, conveys a strong connection to the site. Large glass panels enhance visual connectivity with the external environment, flood interior spaces with natural light, and foster an ambiance that encourages interaction with nature.

Sustainability is a central tenet of the architectural design, with careful consideration given to seasonal performance. The building’s layout promotes natural ventilation during summer months and insulative qualities during colder seasons. Additionally, the surrounding landscaping complements the architectural features by highlighting seasonal changes in the environment, allowing visitors to appreciate the bog's ecological diversity throughout the year.

In summary, the Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Center exemplifies a thoughtful architectural solution that blends functionality with ecological awareness. The unique design approaches, such as its modular framework and use of local materials, create a sustainable environment that enhances visitor engagement with the natural world. For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural intentions and technical characteristics, explore the project presentation that includes architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs to gain deeper insights into this exemplary project.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,363 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy