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Hollow Spaces That Resonate Amidst Porous Connections

Author:
Joshua Jones
Hollow Spaces That Resonate Amidst Porous Connections

Project in-detail

Porous and hollow spaces in the structure evoke the essence of traditional Latvian craftsmanship, enhancing community gathering while seamlessly bridging the landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Porous structure allows for natural light penetration and interaction with the environment.
02
Inspired by the Baltic box psaltery, the design evokes a sense of musicality.
03
Elevated form promotes a feeling of transcendence while maintaining a grounded presence.
04
Defined gathering spaces encourage community interaction and reflection.
05
Integrates seamlessly with the landscape, blurring the lines between natural and built environments.

The Four-Fold Viaduct is situated in a landscape that emphasizes the connection between people and nature. Its design goes beyond the typical function of a bridge, serving as both a pathway and a symbol of human experience. Users are invited to explore the points where Earth, Sky, and Body meet. This project encourages meaningful reflection on one’s relationship with the surroundings while crossing, promoting a deeper understanding of space and place. The design is closely tied to the cultural context of Latvia, drawing on themes of craftsmanship and emotional connection.

Conceptual Foundations

The design takes inspiration from Latvia's material culture, particularly the Baltic box psaltery. This connection to tradition highlights the significance of cultural expressions in architecture. By comparing the viaduct to a silent Kokle, the structure evokes a sense of music and spirit. Crossing the bridge becomes an experience that engages not just the body, but also the mind and emotions of those who pass through it.

Spatial Dynamics

The Four-Fold Viaduct features a prepositionally elevated form, allowing for a feeling of uplift while still being rooted in the metaphorical landscape of the soul. Its hollow and open structure defines spaces where people can gather and interact. This thoughtful design fosters a sense of community and encourages various forms of engagement. As people move across the bridge, the experience unfolds, blending their journey with the surrounding environment.

Integration with Landscape

The project emphasizes a deep connection with the landscape, blurring the lines between physical and conceptual realms. By focusing on this integration, the viaduct turns the simple act of crossing into an enriching journey. Each step increases awareness of the natural world, allowing for a more meaningful experience. The architectural form plays an important role, guiding visitors and creating a dialogue between the design and its setting.

The design ultimately invites people to experience its spaces, drawing them in with its openness. Visitors can find moments of reflection and connection within its gentle curves and defined areas, fostering a true sense of belonging in the environment.

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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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