Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Sustainable Visitor Center Featuring Plywood Structure and Green Roof Integration

Authors:
Zbigniew Czaja, Magdalena Mucha, Joanna Ubik
Sustainable Visitor Center Featuring Plywood Structure and Green Roof Integration

Project in-detail

Incorporating a green roof and a plywood framework, the design offers a sustainable hub for education and exploration of the unique biodiversity within Kemeri Bog.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a green roof to enhance biodiversity and ecological performance.
02
Utilizes locally sourced plywood and wood fiber insulation for sustainability.
03
Features extensive glazing to maximize natural light and promote outdoor connectivity.
04
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to blend with the surrounding landscape.
05
Emphasizes educational spaces through interactive exhibits focused on local ecology.
The Visitor Center at Kemeri Bog is an architectural project designed to provide access and education about the unique ecosystem of the region. Located in Latvia, the center functions as a hub for visitors, offering exhibitions, interactive displays, and amenities such as a café. This project represents a seamless integration of architecture within a natural landscape, promoting environmental awareness while facilitating visitor engagement.

The primary function of the Visitor Center is to educate and inform visitors about the biodiversity of Kemeri Bog, including its flora and fauna. The design emphasizes accessibility, providing clear pathways and open spaces that encourage exploration. The visitor experience is enhanced by a layout that includes exhibition areas, communal spaces for gatherings, and facilities catering to the needs of different user groups. The building is strategically placed to minimize its environmental impact and to blend into the surrounding landscape.

Architectural Approaches in Design

This project stands out through its use of sustainable design principles and materials. Several unique elements contribute to its distinct architectural character. The incorporation of a green roof exemplifies a commitment to ecological design, allowing for natural insulation and promoting local biodiversity. This roof not only contributes to the building's environmental sustainability but also provides a visual continuity with the surrounding terrain.

The predominant use of local materials, such as plywood for the timber frame, aligns the structure with regional construction traditions. This choice not only supports sustainable practices by reducing transportation emissions but also enhances the tactile quality of the interior spaces. The integration of abundant glazing allows for natural light to permeate the building, creating inviting interior environments while establishing a visual connection to the outdoors.

Innovative Use of Space

The spatial organization of the Visitor Center reflects a thoughtful approach to functionality and user experience. Open plan layouts facilitate easy navigation and flexibility in usage, accommodating various visitor activities. The clear separation of functional zones—such as exhibition areas, social spaces, and visitor services—ensures that diverse visitor needs are met without compromising the overall coherence of the design.

The architectural plans effectively guide visitor movement through the site, encouraging an immersive experience that fosters an understanding of the surrounding natural environment. Additionally, the design incorporates educational features that highlight the ecological significance of Kemeri Bog, such as interpretive signage and interactive displays.

As you explore the Visitor Center at Kemeri Bog, consider reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and design elements for a deeper understanding of the project's innovative approaches and the architectural ideas that shaped its development.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy