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Reflective Stainless Steel Walkway Enhancing Landscape Interaction

Authors:
Edgars Janemanis, Andris Kažociņš
Reflective Stainless Steel Walkway Enhancing Landscape Interaction

Project in-detail

Constructed from reflective stainless steel and designed to echo tree forms, the footbridge enhances accessibility in Gauja National Park for both pedestrians and cyclists.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective steel structure mimics natural tree forms.
02
Dual-level design caters to pedestrians and cyclists.
03
Lighting elements draw inspiration from local culture.
04
Glass railings ensure unobstructed views of the landscape.
05
Construction emphasizes environmental integration and accessibility.

The Gauja National Park Footbridge is located within the scenic setting of Gauja National Park. It is designed to provide accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists, featuring a dual-level layout that accommodates a variety of users. The design aims to connect the built environment with the natural landscape, creating a harmony that feels intentional and respectful to the surroundings.

Design Inspiration

The bridge form takes cues from natural elements, mimicking the shapes of tree trunks and branches. This choice enhances the visual integration of the structure, allowing it to blend into the landscape. The design reflects a commitment to maintaining continuity with nature, emphasizing the relationship between the bridge and its environment.

Lighting and Cultural Context

Lighting is an important aspect of the design, inspired by local cultural symbols from Sigulda. These lighting features are functional, helping to illuminate the path for users, while also adding character to the bridge. They aim to create a connection with the local community, enhancing the overall experience for those who use the structure.

Material Selection

The bridge is constructed from stainless steel, known for its durability and resistance to weather. This material was chosen not only for its strength but also for its ability to reflect light, further connecting the bridge to its surroundings. The railings consist of glass on the interior and vertical bars on the exterior, promoting safety while allowing clear views of the natural beauty around it.

Visual Connectivity

The design includes elements that encourage a strong connection between users and the landscape. The transparency of the glass railing offers unobstructed sightlines, allowing pedestrians and cyclists to take in the sights of Gauja National Park as they cross the bridge. This approach supports an immersive experience, inviting users to appreciate the environment while moving through the space.

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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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