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Red Brick And Wood Cladding Form A Cultural Hub Reflecting Heritage And Community Values

Authors:
Greg Ferguson, Ed Davison
Red Brick And Wood Cladding Form A Cultural Hub Reflecting Heritage And Community Values

Project in-detail

Characterized by its red brick facade and warm wood cladding, the museum serves as a cultural hub that intertwines local heritage and community engagement through interactive exhibitions and educational spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Red brick exterior references traditional Latvian building techniques.
02
Wood cladding enhances warmth and connects visitors to nature.
03
The bent A-frame design promotes natural light throughout the interior.
04
Flexible exhibition spaces allow for a diverse range of community activities.
05
Landscaped walking paths integrate the museum with the surrounding environment.
The Omuli Museum of the Horse is a contemporary architectural project located in Latvia. It serves as a cultural institution dedicated to the historical significance of horses in the region. The design integrates local folklore with modern architectural principles to create a functional space that caters to both educational and community needs. This museum not only houses exhibitions related to equine history but also serves as a venue for community engagement and cultural exchange.

The structure features a series of interconnected spaces designed to enhance the visitor experience. Key functional areas include large exhibition halls, interactive educational spaces, community gathering rooms, and dedicated areas for workshops and events. The architectural layout facilitates the movement of visitors while promoting interaction with the exhibits and each other. The strong vertical and horizontal lines of the building's design echo the surrounding landscape, thus grounding it within its geographical context.

Unique Contextual Integration

One notable aspect of the Omuli Museum is its thoughtful integration of local materials and architectural styles. The use of traditional red bricks as the primary external cladding pays homage to regional building practices while ensuring durability. Wooden finishes, strategically placed glass elements, and slate roofing contribute to the aesthetic cohesiveness of the structure. This deliberate material choice not only reflects local craftsmanship but also supports sustainability objectives by utilizing readily available resources.

The museum is designed to bridge the gap between nature and built environments. Outdoor spaces are interwoven with walking paths leading to landscaped areas that encourage interaction. This sensitive approach fosters appreciation for the natural environment, allowing visitors to experience the relationship between the cultural artifacts housed within the museum and their historical contexts.

Functional Design Outcomes

The functional design of the Omuli Museum is characterized by multi-purpose spaces that serve varying community needs. Exhibition halls are equipped with flexible layouts, allowing for changing displays and interactive installations. Community areas, such as kitchens and living spaces, are intentionally located to promote social engagement among visitors and local residents. The addition of spaces for workshops supports educational initiatives and hands-on experiences, further emphasizing the museum's role as a community hub.

The ergonomic design prioritizes visitor comfort and accessibility, ensuring that spaces are welcoming to a diverse audience. Elements such as natural lighting, ventilation systems, and climate-responsive features contribute to an inviting atmosphere. The overall design strategy effectively supports both the educational and cultural missions of the museum while responding to the functional requirements of a modern architectural project.

Explore the architectural plans, sections, and design details of the Omuli Museum of the Horse to gain further insights into this impactful project and its unique approach to integrating culture and architecture in Latvia.
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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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