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Perforated Timber Structure Enhancing Natural Light in a Forested Landscape

Authors:
Maiko Takiguchi, Takashi Fukushima, Hajime Aoyagi, Ryuju Hanaoka
Perforated Timber Structure Enhancing Natural Light in a Forested Landscape

Project in-detail

A perforated timber structure meticulously captures and diffuses light, seamlessly integrating with its forest surroundings to facilitate movement for pedestrians and vehicles.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced timber, promoting sustainability and regional craftsmanship.
02
Incorporates a perforated facade that enhances natural light and dynamic shadow patterns.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that adapts to the surrounding landscape and topography.
04
Integrates ecological landscaping with native vegetation to support local biodiversity.
05
Facilitates both pedestrian and vehicular traffic, enhancing accessibility within the park.
Yarn Bifröst is an architectural project designed as a pedestrian and vehicular bridge in Gauja National Park, Latvia. The project’s primary function is to connect pathways for various user types, enhancing accessibility within the region. The bridge stands as a tribute to the interaction between architecture and nature, showcasing a careful design strategy that respects and complements the surrounding landscape.

The design embodies the concept of a “generator of phenomena,” where light and shadow play an integral role in shaping the user experience. The perforated structure allows natural light to filter through, creating a dynamic environment that changes throughout the day. This design approach is not only aesthetic but also functional, facilitating visual engagement for users as they traverse the bridge.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the distinguishing features of Yarn Bifröst is the use of local materials, primarily wood sourced from nearby forests. This choice supports local craftsmanship, promotes sustainability, and integrates the structure seamlessly into its environment. The wooden framework is complemented by steel cables that provide structural support, creating a tensioned system that minimizes visual bulk.

The bridge's elevation changes respond to the natural topography, ensuring a smooth transition for users moving from the road to the forest path. This thoughtful design maintains the integrity of the landscape while enhancing user experience. The bridge’s form is inspired by natural elements, reflecting an organic relationship between built and natural environments.

Integration with the Natural Environment

Yarn Bifröst is characteristically cohesive with its surroundings. The project incorporates ecological principles, with landscaping elements that utilize native vegetation and promote biodiversity. The design encourages interaction with the natural world, inviting users to engage with the landscape as they travel across the bridge.

The structure's layout is designed to accommodate both pedestrians and vehicles, ensuring safe passage and fluid movement. This dual functionality enhances the bridge's role as a critical connection within the park. The careful arrangement of materials and form showcases a commitment to sustainable design practices, emphasizing ecological sensitivity.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of Yarn Bifröst, exploring the project’s architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs reveals the intricacies of its construction and design philosophy. The innovative approaches applied in this project provide valuable insights into contemporary architectural ideas and practices.
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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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