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Tensioned Cables and Red Stone Anchors Integrate with Nature in a Pedestrian Footbridge

Author:
Maxim Nasab
Tensioned Cables and Red Stone Anchors Integrate with Nature in a Pedestrian Footbridge

Project in-detail

Constructed with weathered steel and anchored by local red stone, the footbridge harmonizes with Gauja National Park's landscape while providing a vital connection for pedestrians exploring the area.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced red stone, enhancing the connection to the landscape.
02
Tensioned cables are visible, showcasing the structure's engineering and support.
03
Integrated glass railings with etched signage improve safety and visitor experience.
04
Textured concrete deck designed for durability while providing slip resistance.
05
Designed to blend seamlessly with the natural forms of Gauja National Park.

The footbridge at Gauja National Park blends modern design with the beauty of nature. Located in a region known for its unique landscapes and rich history, the bridge serves as a vital link for visitors exploring the park. The design emphasizes clarity and structure, allowing the footbridge to fit into the environment while offering a functional pathway.

Structural Design
The bridge features a cable-stayed configuration that makes its engineering visible. This approach not only highlights how the bridge works but also connects it visually to the landscape. Tensioned cables form an interesting pattern, while local red stone anchor blocks on each end provide strength and a sense of location.

Materials and Aesthetics
The superstructure is made from weathered steel, chosen to blend in with the surroundings. The textured concrete deck creates a sturdy surface for pedestrians. Additional elements, like stainless steel fins, add strength to the design while enhancing its overall look.

User Engagement
Glass railings with etched signage improve safety for visitors and also serve a purpose. They offer a way for people to connect with the bridge as they cross. Embedded LED lighting ensures that the footbridge is well-lit at night, making it safe and accessible regardless of the hour.

Construction Process
Building the footbridge follows a clear sequence. It starts with site preparation, then driving piles for the anchor blocks, followed by installing brackets in the center. The steel structure goes up in sections, and once the concrete deck is poured, final touches like landscaping are added. This organized approach ensures the structure is both functional and well-integrated into the park.

The bridge's glass railing, with its etched designs, enhances the experience of crossing, providing a connection between the structure and the natural beauty of the 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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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