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Lattice Framework of Concrete Sleepers Enhances Visitor Experience Along Siberian Railways

Author:
Marcelo Sagot Better
Lattice Framework of Concrete Sleepers Enhances Visitor Experience Along Siberian Railways

Project in-detail

Constructed from a lattice framework of locally sourced wood and concrete sleepers, the visitor center provides an engaging space for travelers along the Trans-Siberian Railway to connect with their surroundings while accessing essential travel information and services.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using concrete railway sleepers, ensuring durability and local relevance.
02
Incorporates a lattice wood framework that enhances natural light and ventilation.
03
Features an observation deck that offers panoramic views of the surrounding Siberian landscape.
04
Designed for multifunctional use, accommodating various visitor services and community activities.
05
Emphasizes sustainability through the use of locally sourced and eco-friendly materials.

### Overview

Located along the Trans-Siberian Railway, the Visitor Center aims to enhance the travel experience by integrating local materials and functional design. The structure serves as a point of interaction for visitors, allowing them to engage with the surrounding landscapes while emphasizing the cultural significance of rail travel in Russia.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The visitor center prominently features two materials: concrete railway sleepers and wood. Concrete sleepers provide a robust foundation, engineered to withstand the harsh Russian climate and sourced locally to improve logistical efficiency. The use of wood adds warmth to the structure, designed in a lattice configuration that promotes air circulation and natural light. This combination reflects a commitment to sustainable practices, minimizing the carbon footprint associated with construction.

### Spatial Configuration and Visitor Engagement

The layout of the center is intentionally designed to promote exploration and accessibility. Key features include a staircase integrated into the sleeper foundation, which leads to an observation deck offering panoramic views. Communal gathering areas encourage social interaction among travelers, while dedicated service spots such as shops and information desks enhance functionality. The overall design fosters a harmonious relationship between the built environment and the natural scenery, supporting both visitor needs and cultural narrative.

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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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