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Thatched Roof Visitor Center Integrating Local Timber and Native Flora

Author:
Charles Beck
Thatched Roof Visitor Center Integrating Local Timber and Native Flora

Project in-detail

Emphasizing sustainable practices, the design incorporates a thatched roof and locally sourced timber to create an engaging center that educates visitors about the rich ecology of the Great Kemeri Bog.
5 key facts about this project
01
The visitor center features a sustainable thatched roof, designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
02
Locally sourced cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural integrity while minimizing environmental impact.
03
The charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance and a distinctive aesthetic that reflects local building traditions.
04
An observation tower offers panoramic views of the Great Kemeri Bog, enhancing visitor engagement with the ecosystem.
05
Educational exhibits are strategically placed to encourage interaction and understanding of the bog's delicate biodiversity.
The Visitor Center for the Great Kemeri Bog embodies a thoughtful approach to architectural design that prioritizes both functionality and environmental integration. Located in Latvia, this project serves multiple roles, acting as an information hub for visitors while fostering a deeper appreciation for the unique ecosystem of the bog. The design caters to the needs of its users, offering amenities and spaces that enhance the overall visitor experience.

At its core, the project represents a commitment to sustainability and ecological awareness. It is carefully crafted to reflect the natural landscape, utilizing materials that resonate with the local environment. The architecture integrates seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, ensuring that visitors feel connected to the natural world even as they begin their journey through the center. The layout encourages exploration and interaction, guiding visitors through various areas designed for education and relaxation.

The building features a series of interconnected spaces, including exhibition areas that showcase the significance of the bog’s ecology and biodiversity. These zones are designed for flexibility, accommodating a wide variety of educational activities and events. The primary structure houses the main exhibition hall and an observation tower, which allows visitors to enjoy panoramic views of the bog, enhancing their understanding of the terrain. The Visitor Center also includes vital facilities such as restrooms and a café, offering comfort and convenience to all who visit.

One important aspect of the Visitor Center is its focus on materiality. The project makes extensive use of wood, which echoes the local environment and ensures that the buildings blend into the landscape. The board and batten siding adds texture and warmth, signaling a rustic quality that complements the natural surroundings. Additionally, thatched roofs provide both aesthetic appeal and practical insulation, promoting energy efficiency while enhancing the visual character of the architecture. Stone elements add durability and a solid foundation, contributing to the overall integrity of the structures.

Distinctive design approaches are evident throughout the project. The open layout and large windows optimize natural light, minimizing the reliance on artificial lighting and creating a bright, inviting atmosphere. This connection to the outside world is further emphasized by the open courtyards that encourage social engagement and interaction among visitors. Landscaping plays a critical role, featuring native plant species that support local wildlife and enhance biodiversity.

This project is also significant in its educational mission. By fostering an understanding of the Great Kemeri Bog’s ecosystem, the architecture serves as a vehicle for ecological literacy. It demonstrates how thoughtful design can elevate awareness about local environments while providing essential services to the community. Each spatial arrangement and material choice is made with the intention of highlighting the importance of preserving the bog and its surrounding habitats.

The Visitor Center for the Great Kemeri Bog stands as an exemplary model of architecture that thoughtfully balances human needs with environmental responsibility. The design captures the spirit of the landscape, offering a space that is as functional as it is engaging. For those interested in learning more about the intricate details and innovative strategies employed in this project, a closer look at the architectural plans, sections, and overall design ideas will provide valuable insights into its conception and impact. Exploring these aspects will enrich your understanding of how architecture can serve both people and the planet harmoniously.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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