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Rammed Earth Foundations with Canopy-Like Timber Structure for an Immersive Nature Experience

Authors:
Ali Zolfaghari, Sina Sadeghi, Mahyar Jalali, Hosein Maghami
Rammed Earth Foundations with Canopy-Like Timber Structure for an Immersive Nature Experience

Project in-detail

Constructed with sustainable timber and rammed-earth foundations, the structure's canopy-like design offers a unique vantage point while providing a safe route for visitors to engage with the surrounding forest ecosystem.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural durability and reduce carbon footprint.
02
The incorporation of charred wooden shingles provides natural fire resistance and a distinctive aesthetic.
03
A bent A-frame design not only supports the structure but reduces wind load effects effectively.
04
The structure features a modular assembly method for efficient transportation and on-site construction.
05
Designed to harmonize with its environment, it minimizes disruption to local wildlife movement.

## Project Overview

Located within a forested area, the Green Bridge-Tower is designed to enhance user interaction with its natural context through a dual-function structure that serves as both a bridge and a viewing tower. The primary objective is to create an accessible and sustainable environment that accommodates pedestrians and wheelchair users, allowing them to engage with the landscape in a meaningful way. The project incorporates eco-friendly materials and modular construction techniques, reflecting a commitment to environmental stewardship and inclusivity.

### Structural Design

The integral components of the structure—the bridge and the tower—feature a gradient design that promotes easy navigation while aligning with the topography. The bridge is inclined at a five-degree slope, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. The tower employs a modular approach, wherein prefabricated segments facilitate efficient assembly on-site. This method not only streamlines the construction process but also minimizes waste, reinforcing the project's sustainability goals.

### Material Selection

Timber is the primary construction material, chosen for its low carbon footprint and local heritage within Latvia's architectural practices. Its aesthetic qualities and structural capabilities enhance the overall design. Connection joints, crafted from composite materials, provide stability while optimizing resource use. Additionally, the design may integrate complementary materials, such as metal brackets and glass panels, to support functionality and durability without compromising ecological integrity.

Throughout its design, every aspect of the Green Bridge-Tower prioritizes the interaction between users and the natural environment, ensuring that the structure is both practical and harmonious with its surroundings. The emphasis on accessibility and biodiversity throughout the design further aligns with contemporary architectural standards for sustainability and user experience.

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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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