Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Elevated Canopy Walkways Featured in Sustainable Timber Visitor Center

Authors:
Yair Pery, Tal Rotchild
Elevated Canopy Walkways Featured in Sustainable Timber Visitor Center

Project in-detail

Elevated walkways built from local timber transport visitors through the treetops, immersing them in the unique ecology of Latvia's bog while serving as a center for education and exploration.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates local pine lumber for sustainable cladding, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
02
Elevated walkways intertwine with the natural landscape, offering visitors a unique view of the forest canopy.
03
Charred wooden shingles are used for roofing, enhancing durability and providing a distinctive aesthetic.
04
An interactive educational exhibit within the center emphasizes the region's biodiversity and conservation efforts.
05
The bent A-frame design creates striking lines that reflect the natural topography of the surrounding bog.
The Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Center is a thoughtfully designed architectural project situated in the ecologically rich area of Latvia. This center serves not only as an informational hub for park visitors but also embodies a commitment to environmental sustainability and education. The architecture seamlessly blends into the natural surroundings, creating a space that encourages interaction with the unique ecosystem of the Kemeri Bog.

Functionally, the Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Center is multifaceted. It provides essential amenities such as ticket sales, exhibition spaces, and educational resources about the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Its design fosters a welcoming atmosphere where visitors can learn about the ecological significance of the bog while enjoying the tranquil landscape. The building's layout is strategically organized to facilitate smooth visitor flow, ensuring that all areas are accessible and engaging.

One of the important design features of the center is its elevated Tree Top Route, which comprises platforms built among the trees. This innovative approach allows visitors to experience the forest canopy from a new perspective, promoting awareness of the surrounding biodiversity. Each platform along this route is designed not only to support a scenic view but also to provide educational content, making the journey informative and engaging.

The architectural elements of the visitor center are significant in their own right. The exterior showcases a distinctive facade characterized by a series of angular rooflines. This design feature harmonizes with the undulating terrain of the bog, creating a cohesive aesthetic that reflects the natural environment. The choice of materials further enhances this integration; local pine lumber is extensively used for cladding, ensuring durability and facilitating sustainability. Plywood panels and construction timber form the core structure, while insulation materials are carefully incorporated to maintain energy efficiency within the building.

A notable aspect of the project is its commitment to using local resources. By selecting materials that are readily available within the vicinity, the design minimizes environmental impact while supporting regional economies. The interior spaces are designed to promote interaction and social engagement, with designated areas for exhibitions, educational displays, and community gatherings. Flexible seating options and picnic areas are incorporated to enhance the visitor experience, encouraging prolonged stays and deeper connections with the site.

The architectural design of the Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Center not only serves practical functions but also emphasizes a connection to nature. The roof terrace complements the Tree Top Route, providing panoramic views that invite reflection and appreciation of the landscape. The building stands as an educational tool, advocating for conservation while offering visitors a platform to engage with their surroundings.

In summary, the Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Center represents a well-considered blend of architecture and environmental stewardship. It functions as an educational facility that fosters a deeper understanding of the unique ecological aspects of the Kemeri region. The project's design includes unique approaches such as the Tree Top Route and carefully chosen materials, all aimed at enhancing visitor interaction with the landscape. For those interested in a more profound understanding of this architectural endeavor, further exploration into the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs will provide valuable insights into the thoughtful considerations that went into this 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 16544 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