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Reed-Covered Structure Embracing Nature for Community Engagement

Authors:
Valeria Kirejenko, Bogdan Casovskij
Reed-Covered Structure Embracing Nature for Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Crafted from locally sourced reed and designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings, this museum serves as a cultural hub for equestrian art and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from locally sourced reed, enhancing thermal efficiency.
02
Large glass facades create visual connections to the surrounding landscape.
03
Integrated greenhouses promote biodiversity and environmental education.
04
Pathways inspired by Baltic woodlands facilitate natural visitor flow.
05
Community workshop spaces support local art and cultural programs.

The Omuli Museum of the Horse represents a notable exploration of how architecture can engage with both cultural heritage and environmental sustainability. Located in a setting that highlights Baltic traditions, this project utilizes reed as a primary building material, presenting a contemporary interpretation of traditional thatching techniques. The museum's design not only functions as an exhibition space for equestrian art and associated activities but also as a community hub that fosters engagement and learning.

The architectural layout consists of multiple interconnected spaces, arranged to facilitate the movement of visitors while maximizing natural light and visual connections to the outside environment. The focus on transparency and integration allows for a fluid experience that encourages exploration. The first and second floors house dedicated areas for exhibitions, workshops, and communal gatherings, promoting both educational and artistic interactions.

Emphasis on Materiality and Sustainability

One of the distinctive aspects of the Omuli Museum is its attention to materiality and sustainable building practices. The use of reed not only culturally resonates with the local context but also offers functional benefits. Reed provides excellent thermal insulation and weather resistance, which are fundamental for maintaining comfortable internal conditions. Additionally, this choice minimizes the project’s ecological footprint by utilizing locally sourced materials.

The design incorporates large glass elements, creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This design approach ensures that natural light floods the building while enhancing views of the surrounding landscape. The integration of greenhouses within the museum further reflects the project's commitment to sustainability, creating biodiverse environments adjacent to the museum's artistic offerings.

Dynamic Spatial Organization

Key areas of the museum include diverse galleries, workshops, and communal spaces, each designed with specific functions in mind. The internal layout emphasizes a pedestrian-friendly experience, with pathways that mimic the natural flow found in typical Baltic woodlands. The inclusion of dynamic spaces such as the greenhouses not only contributes to ecological education but also encourages visitors to connect with nature.

Architectural plans for the museum reveal careful consideration of circulation patterns and accessibility. Features such as ramps ensure inclusivity, allowing visitors of all abilities to navigate the building with ease. The interplay between solid structures and transparent facades promotes a sense of openness while addressing functional needs.

For those interested in the architectural nuances of the Omuli Museum of the Horse, further exploration of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas is encouraged. Analyzing these elements provides deeper insights into the project's purpose, innovations, and potential impact on the architectural landscape.

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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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