Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

The elevated boardwalk providing an accessible timber observation structure

Author:
Chris Wong
The elevated boardwalk providing an accessible timber observation structure
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Set within the natural environment of Ķemeri, Latvia, the design explores ways to enhance visitor engagement with diverse ecosystems. The proposal examines how material choices and spatial organization can support long-term durability while maintaining a sensitive relationship with the environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Network of boardwalks enhances accessibility in nature.
02
Elevated observation deck offers panoramic landscape views.
03
Gradual ascent enhances visual connection with surroundings.
04
Integrated rest areas encourage wildlife observation and reflection.
05
Accoya timber provides durability in exposed environmental conditions.

Set within the wilderness of Ķemeri, Latvia, this proposal envisions a network of boardwalks that guide visitors through the area’s distinctive scrubland, forests, and bogs. The intent is to provide an accessible framework for experiencing the natural landscape, encouraging observation of its varied ecosystems while ensuring inclusivity for all users. Site B has been selected for its proximity to diverse ecological features, allowing visitors to engage with multiple habitats within a single route.

Spatial Strategy and Observation Deck
The design organizes circulation through gently sloping boardwalks that accommodate both ambulant and wheelchair users. At its core, an elevated observation deck rises above the tree canopy, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Approaching the deck becomes part of the experience, as the gradual ascent builds anticipation and expands visual connection with the environment. Along the pathways, rest areas are integrated to encourage moments of pause, reflection, and close observation of wildlife.

Materiality and Environmental Considerations
Durable materials are prioritized to ensure long-term performance in the exposed setting. Accoya structural glulam timber, selected for its resistance to rot and dimensional stability, forms the primary structure, while welded steel balustrades finished in a muted red provide resilience against climatic conditions. Together, these choices balance functional demands with a subdued material palette, supporting a design approach that emphasizes continuity with the surrounding landscape.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

`
Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

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 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in