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Floating Volume Integrating Sinuous Pathways and Natural Landscape

Author:
Marianna Girgenti
Floating Volume Integrating Sinuous Pathways and Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

The elevated volume gracefully integrates with the landscape through a sinuous ramp, guiding visitors from parking to various amenities while enhancing the exploration of the surrounding Kemeri Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated ramp directs circulation while enhancing views of the landscape.
02
Three separate entry points provide easy access from the parking lot.
03
Public programmatic elements are primarily located on the exterior.
04
Sinuous form reflects the natural contours of the surrounding park.
05
Research facilities foster a blend of public engagement and scientific inquiry.

The Great Kemeri Bog Visitors Center is located in Pavasari, Sala Parish, Latvia. It serves as an important starting point for visitors looking to explore the natural landscape of Kemeri Park. The design promotes interaction with the environment, creating a journey that mirrors the undulating forms of the park. The overall concept aims to provide a welcoming space that transitions smoothly from parking areas to various engaging facilities.

Design Concept

The building features a large volume that appears to float above the ground. This elevates the structure, reinforcing a connection between the building and its surroundings. By lifting the design off the ground, the architects intend to enhance the visitor experience. As visitors enter, they follow a pathway that leads them downward, encouraging exploration while enjoying views of the landscape.

Circulation and Access

Circulation is a key element in the design. The roof has a slanted form that doubles as a ramp, making it easier for people to access the upper level and guiding them back down through the space. The location of entry points in the parking lot simplifies access. A ticketing booth is conveniently placed next to the escalator, ensuring visitors can quickly begin their experience.

Programmatic Elements

Public spaces are primarily located on the exterior of the building. This choice allows the interior to focus on research facilities, creating a functional balance between community engagement and scientific study. The roof area serves as a transition to the bog while also housing important components of the visitor center, blending education with exploration.

The design reflects a commitment to harmonize with nature. This is evident in the way the structure flows into the landscape, enhancing the experience for visitors. The careful arrangement of spaces not only supports educational purposes but also invites people to engage more deeply with the natural world around them.

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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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