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Natural Stone and Pine Wood Integrate Into a Visitor Center Designed for Habitat Education and Recreation

Authors:
Jose Lacruz vela, Naomi Njoki nyaga njonjo
Natural Stone and Pine Wood Integrate Into a Visitor Center Designed for Habitat Education and Recreation

Project in-detail

Nestled within the Great Kemeri Bog, the visitor center unites locally sourced pine wood and resilient stone materials to create an immersive space dedicated to environmental education and recreation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced pine wood and stone to enhance ecological compatibility.
02
Incorporates interactive exhibits designed to educate visitors about the local ecosystem.
03
Features a flexible layout that adapts to various recreational activities and community events.
04
Paths are aligned with the natural topography, promoting an immersive experience in the bog landscape.
05
Employs sustainable construction techniques, including the use of natural materials and minimal environmental disruption.
The architectural project located in the Great Kemeri Bog National Park is designed to serve as a visitor center that enhances the experience of engaging with the natural environment while fostering a deep appreciation for the unique ecological features of the area. The architectural design represents a thoughtful and deliberate effort to balance functional programming with an inherent respect for the surrounding landscape, showcasing how architecture can coexist harmoniously with nature.

Functionally, the visitor center fulfills multiple roles. It provides essential information to visitors about the park's ecosystem, while also offering recreational spaces that encourage exploration and interaction with the natural surroundings. By integrating educational features with leisure areas, the design invites varying demographics to engage with the park, from families seeking recreational activities to individuals interested in environmental education. The thoughtful arrangement of spaces ensures that the center is not just a stopover, but a destination that encourages visitors to linger and learn.

Important components of the project include the information center, café, exhibition areas, and recreational spaces. The information center is at the heart of the design, constructed from local stone and accented with warm pine wood, creating a welcoming environment that resonates with the local geography. Here, visitors can access park resources that promote a deeper understanding of the region's biodiversity. Adjacent to the information hub, a café provides a space for relaxation and socialization, allowing visitors to enjoy refreshments while still connected to the natural ambiance.

Furthermore, the design incorporates outdoor playgrounds and camping areas that encourage families and groups to engage with the landscape in a playful and exploratory manner. These components are seamlessly integrated into the site, connected by a network of pathways designed for easy navigation. The circulation routes lead visitors through different facets of the site, ensuring accessibility while promoting an immersive experience in the bog's rich ecology.

One of the unique design approaches in this project lies in its linear arrangement, where architectural elements are aligned with the natural contours of the landscape. This method not only preserves existing flora but also allows visitors to experience the park's varied ecosystems through carefully curated pathways. The design transcends mere functionality; it embodies the essence of the Great Kemeri Bog, making nature an integral part of the visitor center experience. The choice of materials—such as durable pine wood, local stone, and flexible polypropylene—further emphasizes sustainability and the tactile connection visitors can have with the environment, enriching their overall experience.

Through the careful interplay of architecture and landscape, this project serves as a model for future developments in ecologically sensitive areas. Every element is designed to educate and engage, reinforcing the importance of environmental stewardship. For those interested in delving deeper into the architecture of this project, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas will offer valuable insights into its intricate relationship with nature and the intentionality behind each design choice. Exploring these aspects further will uncover how this visitor center not only enhances visitor engagement but also respects and preserves the ecological integrity of the Great Kemeri Bog National Park.
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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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