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Elevated Viewing Platform Constructed with Sustainable Wood and Transparent Glass in a Natural Wetland Environment

Authors:
Olivera Miljkovic, Slavko Knezevic, Vincent Lien
Elevated Viewing Platform Constructed with Sustainable Wood and Transparent Glass in a Natural Wetland Environment

Project in-detail

Constructed with sustainably sourced timber and expansive glass panels, the elevated platform provides unobstructed views of the wetland ecosystem, enhancing visitor engagement with the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with sustainably sourced wood and extensive glass, enhancing visibility and connection to the environment.
02
Elevated design minimizes ecological disturbance, allowing for unobtrusive viewing of the wetland ecosystem.
03
Incorporates accessibility ramps, ensuring inclusive access for visitors of all mobility levels.
04
Utilizes modular elements for easy assembly and potential modifications in response to environmental changes.
05
Connects seamlessly to existing trails, promoting responsible exploration of the park’s natural resources.

### Overview
The observation platform at Kemeri National Park in Latvia is designed to integrate with the surrounding natural landscape while enhancing visitor accessibility and experience. This structure aims to provide unobstructed views of the park's diverse ecosystems, fostering a connection between visitors and their environment. Elevated above the fragile wetlands, the platform minimizes ecological impact and encourages exploration without disturbing the sensitive bog habitat.

### Structural Design and Aesthetics
The platform's design features an elevated form supported by slender columns, resulting in minimal visual disruption. Its angular, peak-like rooflines draw inspiration from the natural silhouettes of the forest, creating a sense of dynamism and stability. Inside, large glass panels afford expansive views that immerse visitors in the surrounding wildlife and natural scenery. The choice of materials plays a crucial role, with sustainably sourced wood providing warmth and organic appeal, while lightweight steel ensures durability. Transparent polycarbonate barriers maintain sightlines and enhance the overall experience.

### Accessibility and Environmental Considerations
The platform incorporates universal accessibility features, including ramps, to accommodate visitors of varying mobility levels. Complementing the platform are upgraded boardwalks that improve navigation within the park. The elevation of the structure is a deliberate strategy to respect the park's topography and ecosystem, while prefabricated components facilitate efficient construction and minimize environmental disruption. This thoughtful approach balances visitor engagement with conservation, promoting responsible interaction with the natural world.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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