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Reclaimed Wood Footbridge Embracing Natural Light and Biodiversity

Authors:
Zeev Rajman, Huong Vu
Reclaimed Wood Footbridge Embracing Natural Light and Biodiversity

Project in-detail

Crafted from reclaimed wood and designed to integrate natural light with the surrounding environment, the footbridge enhances biodiversity while providing a vital pedestrian link within Gauja National Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with prefabricated modules for easy assembly and adaptability.
02
Integrates light-filtering seams to support natural vegetation growth.
03
Designed to reflect the oxbow shapes found in the park's landscape.
04
Utilizes reclaimed wood to minimize environmental impact.
05
Provides multiple viewing areas to enhance visitor engagement with nature.

The Gauja National Park Footbridge is a thoughtfully designed structure that enhances the natural beauty of the park while providing a functional crossing for pedestrians. Located in the picturesque setting of Gauja National Park, the bridge connects various trails, allowing visitors to explore the diverse landscapes. The design concept revolves around creating a bridge that reflects the ecological features of the area, aiming to strengthen the relationship between people and the environment.

Modular Design

The structure consists of prefabricated modular units, which offers flexibility in its use. Each module is carefully positioned to serve multiple purposes, such as resting areas or observation points. This modular approach not only supports easy installation but also allows the bridge to adapt to the changing needs of the park and its visitors.

Structural Framework

At the heart of the bridge is a robust framework that ensures its stability while also encouraging plant growth in the surrounding area. The design is intended to promote natural vegetation, allowing greenery to flourish around and through the structure. By integrating light and allowing vegetation to intertwine with the framework, the bridge fosters a connection between built and natural elements, creating a cohesive experience for visitors.

Material Selection

The materials chosen for the footbridge prioritize sustainability and environmental compatibility. The outer layer features a double arrangement of reclaimed wood and thermo-treated wood panels. These materials not only protect the structure but also allow sunlight to filter through, creating a warm environment. The choice of materials also reinforces the bridge's connection to the surrounding nature, minimizing its impact on the ecosystem.

The design includes intricately woven pores in the outer layers, inviting light and local plants to mingle with the structure. This detail enhances the visual connection with the environment and emphasizes the project’s dedication to supporting biodiversity in Gauja National Park.

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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

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