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Elevated Pathway Constructed from Reclaimed Timber Within a Natural Landscape

Authors:
Raffaele Palmieri, Manuel Zucchi
Elevated Pathway Constructed from Reclaimed Timber Within a Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed with reclaimed timber and a modular lattice framework, the elevated pathway offers panoramic views while seamlessly integrating with the surrounding landscape, providing visitors an immersive experience within the park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from reclaimed timber, promoting sustainability.
02
Features charred wooden shingles that enhance weather resistance.
03
Incorporates a modular design for efficient assembly and adaptability.
04
Utilizes an elevated pathway to minimize land disturbance in the park.
05
Designed to offer 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape.

The Sky Loop is an architectural structure located in Kemeri National Park, Latvia, designed to enhance the visitor experience while maintaining a strong connection to the surrounding environment. This project exemplifies a thoughtful integration of architecture and nature, allowing for exploration and engagement with the landscape. The structure serves as a continuous pathway, consisting of a ramp that leads to a horizontal loop, facilitating panoramic views of the picturesque park.

The project represents an architectural response to the need for recreational facilities within natural settings, blending seamlessly with the topography of the site. This design not only prioritizes user accessibility but also emphasizes sustainability through the use of environmentally friendly materials.

Innovative Structural Approaches

A distinctive feature of the Sky Loop is its modular approach to construction. The structural design employs a timber lattice, constructed from reclaimed wood, reinforcing sustainable practices and regional architectural traditions. The incorporation of steel frameworks provides necessary structural support while keeping the overall weight of the design light. This dual-materiality enhances the visual appeal of the project while ensuring long-term durability.

The ramp is strategically designed to ensure accessibility for all visitors, gradually ascending to provide an immersive experience as users approach the horizontal loop. This design choice reflects a commitment to inclusivity, allowing a diverse range of visitors to engage with the installation, while also protecting the ecological setting of the park.

Integration with the Environment

The Sky Loop distinguishes itself further through its environmental sensitivity. The design minimizes disruption to the natural landscape, ensuring that the ecological integrity of Kemeri National Park is preserved. The pathway's alignment takes advantage of natural contours, creating a flow that harmonizes with the existing features of the terrain.

Additionally, the project highlights cultural relevance through its material choices and design ethos. The use of timber mirrors traditional Latvian architecture, fostering a sense of identity and continuity within the locality. This connection to local heritage enhances the visitor's experience, promoting appreciation for the region's natural and cultural resources.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Sky Loop project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for a deeper insight into these innovative architectural ideas and their implementation.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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