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Elevated Timber Walkways Engaging Nature Through Sustainable Steel Construction

Author:
David Graham
Elevated Timber Walkways Engaging Nature Through Sustainable Steel Construction

Project in-detail

Elevated walkways of interlocking finger-jointed timber offer a seamless connection with the natural landscape, allowing visitors to explore the beauty of Kemeri National Park while promoting environmental awareness and accessibility.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates interlocking finger-jointed timber to enhance structural stability while minimizing material waste.
02
Elevated walkways create an immersive experience, allowing visitors to engage with the natural environment without disturbing it.
03
Steel framing provides a lightweight yet durable support structure, ensuring longevity and resilience.
04
Open metal grill flooring offers unobstructed views of the forest floor, promoting interaction with the ecosystem below.
05
Accessibility features throughout the design allow individuals of all abilities to navigate the tower and enjoy the park.
The Kemeri National Park Observation Tower stands as a thoughtful architectural project that enhances the visitor experience in one of Latvia’s cherished natural reserves. Rooted in the principles of sustainability and inclusivity, the design integrates seamlessly into the landscape, inviting exploration while preserving the integrity of the surrounding ecosystem. This project represents a bridge between human experience and nature, allowing guests to access elevated views of the park’s diverse flora and fauna.

Functionally, the observation tower serves multiple purposes. It acts as a vantage point for visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of Kemeri National Park while also promoting environmental awareness. The design encourages people to engage with their surroundings from an elevated perspective, facilitating a deeper appreciation for nature. By providing walkways and elevated areas, it allows visitors to move through the park without disturbing the natural habitat, demonstrating a commitment to ecological stewardship.

The key elements of the design include elevated walkways, a central observation tower, and thoughtfully placed staircases. These components work together to create an accessible route that moves through the park without compromising the integrity of the landscape. The elevated walkways are particularly notable, as they encourage mobility and offer unique observational opportunities without detracting from the natural setting. Visitors can navigate these paths comfortably, whether on foot or by wheelchair, making the tower accessible to all.

The structure is primarily constructed from sustainable materials, including timber, steel, and metal grill flooring. The choice of wood not only enhances the visual connection to the surrounding trees but also reflects a commitment to sustainability by utilizing materials with lower environmental impact. The structural framework of steel provides durability while maintaining a lightweight profile, ensuring that the architecture does not overpower the natural elements around it. The use of metal grill flooring creates an open view down to the forest floor, offering a unique interactive experience that fosters a sense of connection with nature.

Moreover, the design employs interlocking finger-jointed timber, which offers both structural strength and environmental sustainability. This technique emphasizes craftsmanship while also minimizing the amount of waste generated during construction. The overall material palette of the project is intentionally simple, allowing it to blend harmoniously into the natural setting, rather than standing out in a disruptive manner.

One of the unique design approaches of this project is its focus on promoting inclusivity through thoughtful planning and architecture. By ensuring that the observation tower is easily accessible, the project conveys an important message about breaking down barriers to nature. It shows that architectural design can play a pivotal role in making natural environments welcoming for everyone, regardless of physical ability.

In addition to the physical elements, this architectural project encapsulates a broader vision of how public structures can foster a relationship with the environment. The design seeks to educate visitors about the importance of ecological preservation and sustainability. As guests ascend through the tower, they not only experience breathtaking views but also engage with interpretive elements that highlight the park's unique ecological attributes.

The Kemeri National Park Observation Tower is a noteworthy example of how contemporary architecture can harmonize functionality, sustainability, and an appreciation for nature. It invites visitors to explore and learn while deeply respecting the natural environment. For those interested in delving deeper into the design, there are architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs available for review. These details will provide further insight into the thoughtful ideas and intentional details that brought this project to life. Explore the project's presentation to uncover more about its intricacies and the architectural vision behind it.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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