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Rammed Earth Walls and Solar Glass Bring Life to a Sustainable Visitor Center

Authors:
Vikrant Dalvi, Mahesh Thakur, Manjiri Paprikar
Rammed Earth Walls and Solar Glass Bring Life to a Sustainable Visitor Center

Project in-detail

Rammed earth walls combined with energy-efficient solar glass create a naturally integrated visitor center that educates and engages guests in the unique ecosystem of the Great Kemeri Bog.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls enhance thermal performance and blend seamlessly with the local landscape.
02
Solar glass integrated into the roof maximizes energy efficiency while providing natural lighting.
03
Local timber was used in structural elements, promoting sustainable forestry practices.
04
Gabion walls filled with local stone create a durable and visually cohesive connection to the site.
05
The layout includes outdoor terraces that encourage interaction with the surrounding bog ecosystem.
The Great Kemeri Bog Visitors Center represents a harmonious blend of architecture and nature, situated within the expansive Great Kemeri Bog National Park. This project serves multiple functions, acting as a welcoming gateway for visitors while fostering educational opportunities about the local ecosystem. The design not only accommodates a variety of activities but also encourages a deeper interaction between people and the natural environment, reinforcing the significance of conservation.

The architectural design emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity, structured around various program spaces to cater to the diverse needs of its patrons. Inside, visitors can find a café, spaces for exhibitions, and an information center, all thoughtfully organized to flow naturally into the surrounding landscape. The building's layout is intentionally open, making use of semi-exterior and transitional spaces that encourage a seamless connection with the outdoors. Each area serves as a vantage point to appreciate the bog's unique scenery, which is vital for enhancing visitor engagement and understanding of the ecological context.

Material selection plays a crucial role in reinforcing both the aesthetic appeal and the sustainability of the Visitors Center. The project incorporates locally sourced rammed earth as a primary construction material, chosen for its durability and excellent insulation properties. This choice reflects an awareness of the local climate and resources, minimizing the building's environmental footprint while providing a warm, organic feel that complements the surrounding landscape. Additionally, local timber is utilized for various structural elements, supporting sustainable forestry practices and contributing to the overall sustainability narrative of the project.

The use of gabion baskets filled with locally sourced stone acts not only as a functional building component but also integrates physically and visually with the natural environment. Meanwhile, solar glass elements are incorporated into the roofing, harnessing renewable energy while ensuring the interior spaces are flooded with natural light. This focus on energy efficiency is paramount, as it underlines the commitment to environmentally responsible architecture.

One of the unique design approaches in this project is the emphasis on flexible spaces that can adapt to various uses. The open floor plan facilitates effortless movement and transitions between indoor and outdoor environments, accommodating diverse activities from educational workshops to recreational gatherings. The circulation paths are carefully designed to guide visitors through the center, promoting exploration and interaction with both the facility and the bog itself.

Architectural ideas around user experience have been profoundly considered, with strategic placements of windows and outdoor terraces enhancing the sense of connection to the bog. By allowing visitors to experience the landscape from different perspectives, the design instills a feeling of immersion in nature. The architectural sections reveal how light, space, and nature intersect within the building, contributing to a thoughtful dialogue between human activity and the surrounding ecology.

In summary, the Great Kemeri Bog Visitors Center exemplifies a sophisticated yet approachable architectural response to its environment. It encapsulates the principles of sustainable design while serving a vital educational function for park visitors. The careful attention to materiality, energy efficiency, and user engagement highlights a clear understanding of contemporary architectural practices that respect and enhance the natural landscape. For those seeking more details about this remarkable project, including architectural plans and designs, exploring the presentation will provide a deeper understanding of the thoughtful design approaches and innovative solutions that define the Great Kemeri Bog Visitors Center.
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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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