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Thatch Roofing and Pine Structure Creating Seamless Harmony With Nature in Visitor Services

Authors:
Can Koçak, Ayşe Yeşildağ
Thatch Roofing and Pine Structure Creating Seamless Harmony With Nature in Visitor Services

Project in-detail

Constructed with thatch roofing and a pine structure, the design establishes a direct connection with the surrounding landscape while providing essential visitor services within Kemeri National Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with local pine wood, enhancing sustainability and regional character.
02
Thatch roofing mimics the natural landscape, providing insulation and aesthetic cohesion.
03
Integrated rainwater collection system supports water management and conservation efforts.
04
Transparent glass walls create unobstructed views, fostering a connection to the environment.
05
Central square facilitates social interaction and educates visitors about local ecology.
The Kemeri National Park Visitor Centre is an architectural project strategically located in Latvia, designed to serve as the central hub for visitors to the national park. This facility aims to enhance the visitor experience by providing essential services while creating a seamless connection between built structures and the surrounding natural environment. The design reflects a strong commitment to sustainability, aligning with both ecological preservation and visitor engagement.

The project features a series of interconnected volumes that facilitate movement and interaction among various user groups. A core aspect of its design is the central square, which acts as a gathering space for educational sessions, tours, and relaxation. The architectural layout promotes natural light flow and views of the surrounding landscape, creating a coherent dialogue between interior spaces and outdoor settings.

The Visitor Centre embraces a design methodology that underscores the importance of local context. The use of traditional materials such as pine wood and thatch connects the building visually and functionally to the regional architecture. The thatched roofing system, inspired by local building heritage, provides insulation while echoing the forms found in the park’s natural environment. Transparency plays a crucial role in the Visitor Centre, with ample use of glass that enables visitors to enjoy unobstructed views and reinforces the notion of immersion in nature.

Sustainable design principles are evident in the incorporation of solar panels, intended for energy efficiency, and a rainwater collection system that minimizes resource consumption. These elements not only reduce the environmental footprint of the building but also provide educational opportunities for visitors regarding sustainable practices.

Unique to this project is its versatility in functionality; it serves as an information hub, exhibition space, and a café, accommodating a range of visitor needs. The layout encourages flow and interaction, making it easy for guests to navigate while also fostering a connection to the park’s educational resources.

This Visitor Centre stands out among similar projects by effectively blending ethical architectural practices with local cultural narratives. Its commitment to sustainability, regional materiality, and interactive design positions the Kemeri National Park Visitor Centre as an exemplary model of architecture that respects and enhances the natural landscape.

To gain deeper insights into this architectural endeavor, exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, and detailed architectural designs will provide valuable information on the project’s innovative approaches and methodologies. Visitors are encouraged to review these elements for a comprehensive understanding of the design strategies that define this facility.
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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
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