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Hexagonal Nature Hub Crafted from Sustainable Timber with Living Roof Integration

Authors:
Misak Terzibasiyan, Athanasia Kalaitzidou, Vassiliki Rapsomaniki, Gijs Jacobs
Hexagonal Nature Hub Crafted from Sustainable Timber with Living Roof Integration

Project in-detail

Crafted with hexagonal timber panels and crowned by a living roof, this visitor center seamlessly blends into the Pape Nature Park, inviting guests to connect with the landscape while enjoying educational services and recreational opportunities.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a hexagonal structure that enhances both aesthetics and structural efficiency.
02
A living roof composed of native vegetation promotes biodiversity and environmental sustainability.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance while offering a unique visual texture.
04
Modular panels allow for easy maintenance and future expansions without significant renovations.
05
The visitor center features designated areas for educational programs that engage guests with the local ecosystem.
The Pape Nature Park Gateway represents a thoughtful and innovative approach to architectural design, situated within the scenic Pape Nature Park in southwestern Latvia. This project serves as a critical entry point for visitors, enhancing their experience while promoting an appreciation for the local ecology. The design effectively combines functional space with an engaging visitor environment that reflects the natural features of the surrounding landscape.

At its core, the Pape Nature Park Gateway functions as a welcome center for park guests, providing essential services such as ticketing, information resources, and rest areas. The architectural design emphasizes both utility and aesthetic appeal, creating a harmonious space that encourages exploration and interaction with nature. The layout showcases a clear division between staff areas and visitor facilities, optimizing the flow of operations while ensuring that guests receive a welcoming and informative introduction to the park.

One of the crucial aspects of the design is its use of materials. Timber is predominantly featured in the structure, chosen for its sustainability and ability to resonate with the surrounding forested environment. This choice not only reinforces ecological values but also offers structural benefits, including a warm aesthetic that enhances the visitor experience. Additionally, the project incorporates glass elements that allow for transparency, inviting natural light into the spaces, and offering views of the beautiful landscape outside.

The architectural design employs a distinctive hexagonal motif, reminiscent of natural structures such as honeycombs. This geometric approach serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it enhances the structural integrity of the building while minimizing material usage. The modular nature of the hexagonal shapes allows for flexible design possibilities, making it easier to adapt the structure in the future without extensive renovations. The design not only addresses functional requirements but also pays homage to the local fauna and flora, establishing a visual connection between architecture and nature.

In addition to its aesthetic qualities, the Pape Nature Park Gateway is committed to sustainability. The building features a living roof, which not only insulates the structure but also promotes biodiversity by providing a habitat for various plant and animal species. This thoughtful integration of green design elements reinforces the project’s ecological responsibility and sustainability goals, establishing it as an architectural model for similar projects.

The exterior space around the gateway is designed to cater to visitors of all ages, offering a variety of recreational opportunities. Spaces for outdoor activities, such as playgrounds or picnic areas, ensure that families and individuals have areas to relax and engage with nature. This multifunctionality underscores the project’s role as more than just a transit point but as a vibrant hub for enjoyment and learning.

What sets the Pape Nature Park Gateway apart from typical visitor centers is its commitment to blending into its natural surroundings while also standing out as an architectural piece. The roof's design, mimicking the landscape's contours, creates an organic silhouette that does not disturb the visual flow of the park. The entire structure encourages exploration of the natural environment, inviting visitors not just to enter but to appreciate the biodiversity that surrounds them.

For those seeking further insights into this project, exploring its architectural plans, sections, and design renderings can provide a deeper understanding of how these concepts have been realized. This detailed analysis of the Pape Nature Park Gateway showcases how architecture can effectively support visitor engagement while respecting the ecological integrity of its location. Visitors are encouraged to delve into the project presentation to appreciate the intricate design details and architectural ideas that contribute to this remarkable addition to Latvia’s natural landscape.
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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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