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Hexagonal Canopy Structure Built with Composite Materials for Ecological Engagement

Authors:
Xin Fan, Jingwen Wang
Hexagonal Canopy Structure Built with Composite Materials for Ecological Engagement

Project in-detail

Constructed with hexagonal modules and large glass façades that echo the surrounding forest canopy, the visitor center offers a seamless blend of educational spaces and community engagement within the unique ecosystem of Kemeri National Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
The visitor center incorporates hexagonal modules that mimic the form of tree canopies, enhancing its integration with the natural surroundings.
02
Large glass façades facilitate unobstructed views of the Kemeri National Park while maximizing natural light within the interior spaces.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized in the structure, promoting sustainability and reducing the building's carbon footprint.
04
The charred wooden shingles used for cladding reflect traditional Latvian design techniques while providing durability against the elements.
05
The bent A-frame design creates dynamic interior spaces that encourage visitor exploration and interaction with the exhibits.
The Kemeri Bog Visitor Center is an architectural project located within Latvia’s Kemeri National Park, designed to serve as a gateway for visitors to explore and learn about the unique ecosystems found in the region. The project embodies a deep respect for its natural context, aiming to foster a connection between visitors and the environmental richness of the bog landscape.

At its core, the visitor center functions as an educational hub, providing spaces for exhibitions focused on local wildlife, plant species, and the ecological significance of the bogs. It also features areas for social interaction, including a café where visitors can relax while enjoying views of the surrounding forest. The building itself is designed with a modular approach, consisting of individual hexagonal units that come together to create a cohesive structure. This innovative design allows for flexibility in use and promotes a seamless flow between different sections of the center.

The architectural design of the Kemeri Bog Visitor Center is characterized by its well-considered relationship with nature. Large expanses of glass are integrated throughout the structure, maximizing natural light and offering panoramic views of the park’s landscapes. This design choice enhances the visitor experience, allowing guests to feel immersed in the environment. Additionally, the use of wood as a primary material not only complements the natural surroundings but also adds warmth and texture to the interior spaces.

The modular units mimic the form of trees, creating an organic silhouette that blends into the landscape. Each unit functions independently while contributing to the overall unity of the visitor center, allowing for various educational and recreational activities to take place simultaneously. The roof design, inspired by the canopies of trees, provides shelter while also creating dynamic patterns of light and shadow within the space. These design elements encourage visitors to engage with both the building and the surrounding nature in a meaningful way.

Important details of the visitor center’s design include its commitment to sustainability and adaptability. The choice of materials, such as wood, glass, concrete, and metal, reflects a careful consideration of environmental impact. The building is not only designed to endure the climate of the region but is also equipped to be easily maintained over time. The strategic use of overhangs and fenestration manages heat retention and allows for natural ventilation, further emphasizing the project’s sustainable approach.

Architectural elements, such as the visible trusses and the structural framing, serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, creating an inviting atmosphere while ensuring the building's integrity. The exterior cladding of wood composite panels provides durability and contributes to the overall aesthetic cohesion with the surrounding forest.

What sets the Kemeri Bog Visitor Center apart is its focus on creating an engaging space that prioritizes the visitor experience while respecting ecological balance. The design encourages exploration and interaction with the environment, aligning with the center’s goal of promoting awareness and appreciation of the natural world. Each aspect of the architecture, from the choice of materials to the modular layout, embodies a holistic vision for how structures can coexist with their surroundings.

The Kemeri Bog Visitor Center exemplifies a thoughtful response to the needs of visitors while maintaining a clear connection to the unique character of its location. For those interested in the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas behind this project, exploring the presentation would provide valuable insights into how such projects can effectively integrate into their natural contexts. This visitor center not only serves as a functional space for education and community engagement but also stands as a testament to the potential for architecture to support environmental stewardship and enhance our understanding of nature.
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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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