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Elevated Structure of Curvilinear Forms Emphasizing Transparent Walls and Natural Light in a Visitor Center

Authors:
Xinxin Lin, Raina Lin
Elevated Structure of Curvilinear Forms Emphasizing Transparent Walls and Natural Light in a Visitor Center

Project in-detail

Elevated above the undulating landscape, the visitor center utilizes curvilinear forms and transparent walls to seamlessly integrate into the Great Kemeri Bog while facilitating a rich experience of nature and education.
5 key facts about this project
01
The visitor center features a curvilinear form that mimics the natural landscape of Great Kemeri Bog.
02
Elevated design minimizes ground disturbance, preserving the bog's fragile ecosystem.
03
Transparent wall sections provide uninterrupted views and facilitate a strong connection with nature.
04
Sustainable materials, including cross-laminated timber and charred shingles, enhance durability and aesthetic integration.
05
Interactive exhibits are designed to engage visitors in the ecological significance of the bog environment.
The project is a thoughtfully designed visitor center located in Great Kemeri Bog, Latvia, which aims to enhance the experience of visitors while fostering a strong connection with the surrounding natural environment. This architectural endeavor serves as a gateway for exploration, education, and appreciation of the unique bog landscape, representing a harmonious blend of structured space and organic forms.

The visitor center plays a vital role in public engagement, offering insights into the ecological significance of the bog while providing a space for gathering, relaxation, and learning. With a primary function of facilitating visitor interaction with nature, it accommodates educational programs, informational exhibits, and recreational activities, making it a multifunctional hub in the park. The thoughtful integration of these components reflects an understanding of the needs of visitors and the responsibilities associated with environmental stewardship.

One of the most important aspects of the architectural design is the interplay between the built environment and the natural landscape. The structure is characterized by a series of undulating forms that reflect the topography of the bog, creating a sense of continuity between the architecture and its surroundings. This biomimetic approach establishes a dialogue with the landscape, enhancing the sensory experiences of visitors as they engage with their environment.

The design employs a range of materials that contribute to both the aesthetic and functional qualities of the visitor center. Concrete is used for structural elements, ensuring durability while providing a robust foundation. Expansive glass panels offer transparency, inviting natural light into interior spaces and allowing for unobstructed views of the bog. Wood, another key material, adds warmth and a tactile connection to nature, while metal accents introduce a contemporary edge to the overall design.

Circulation within the visitor center is designed to encourage exploration. Organic pathways guide visitors through a series of interconnected spaces, promoting seamless movement and engagement with the exhibits and outdoor areas. Features such as spiral ramps and atrium-like openings create a sense of openness, fostering an inviting atmosphere that encourages visitors to linger and explore.

The visitor center's unique design is marked by its innovative approach to its relationship with the ground. The building minimizes its physical footprint, elevating certain sections to create a sense of levitation above the landscape. This design strategy not only reduces disruption to the ecological integrity of the bog but also allows visitors to experience the space from various perspectives, enhancing their interaction with the environment.

Additionally, the incorporation of natural ventilation strategies informs the architectural approach, allowing for a reduced reliance on mechanical systems. This sustainable design consideration reflects a commitment to environmentally responsible architecture, enhancing the overall experience while preserving the ecological balance of the site.

Overall, this project stands as a meaningful contribution to the dialogue between architecture and nature. The visitor center embodies the principles of thoughtful design, sustainability, and respect for the natural environment, making it an essential landmark within Great Kemeri Bog. To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that shaped this project, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. Engaging with these elements will provide a comprehensive understanding of how architecture can serve as a bridge between human experience and the natural world.
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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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