The project "A Hill with Horses" is located in a Latvian farm landscape and highlights the relationship between nature and human experience. It creates a space where visitors can interact with the environment while enjoying time with horses. The concept focuses on elevating both the landscape and the experiences people have in it, encouraging a connection with nature through varied perspectives.

Concept and Design Intent

The design envisions a hill that serves as a central element in the landscape. Visitors can ride horses up to the top, fostering a direct connection with nature. This journey offers new experiences, allowing people to see the ground from the perspective of a horse, and to appreciate the surrounding flora in a fresh way. Elevating the landscape not only engages visitors but also deepens their relationship with the environment.

Ecological Integration

An important aspect of the design is its commitment to sustainability. The hill is created using soil sourced from the site itself, reducing the need for external materials. This approach allows the hill to blend with the existing landscape naturally. The project incorporates native Latvian wildflowers, such as Aquilegia and Aster, enriching local biodiversity and reinforcing the connection to the area’s identity.

Accessibility and Community Engagement

The path leading to the hill is designed to have a gentle incline, making it easy for all visitors, including those on horseback. This design choice promotes inclusivity and encourages community interaction. As people move up the hill, they encounter various landforms that inspire curiosity and discovery, enhancing their engagement with nature.

Experiential Spaces

At the top, the design includes sheltered areas that invite visitors to rest and reflect. Structures rise from the hill made from local soil and scrap timber, emphasizing a connection with the natural environment. This choice supports sustainable practices and deepens the visitor's experience as they engage with the landscape.

Visitors can pause at the summit, surrounded by the colors of wildflowers and views of the landscape. This moment allows for contemplation and a deeper connection with the natural world.