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Timber Frame Pavilions Emphasizing Vertical Elevation in a Natural Setting

Authors:
Dominik Stangl, Rupert Amann
Timber Frame Pavilions Emphasizing Vertical Elevation in a Natural Setting

Project in-detail

Large, ceiling-high windows frame views of Kemeri Bog while timber frame pavilions provide distinct functional spaces for visitors to explore the area's natural biodiversity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Large, ceiling-high windows enhance natural light and connect indoor spaces with outdoor views.
02
The design features a series of timber frame pavilions organized around two axial divisions.
03
Vertical elevation creates a visually lighter composition that references the adjacent Great Kemeri Boardwalk.
04
Constructed wetlands manage gray water, emphasizing sustainability within the site design.
05
Private camping areas are strategically isolated from public spaces, enhancing visitor comfort.

The Kemeri Bog Visitor Center is located within the unique ecological landscape of the Kemeri Bog, designed to improve visitor experiences. It functions as a gateway to the area's biodiversity. The design focuses on an organized structure that divides the site into public and private areas, facilitating movement and interaction with the natural surroundings.

Design Organization

The project is structured around two main axes that define different functional spaces. The first axis includes essential features like car and bus parking, a camping site, and an open terrace, all positioned to welcome visitors effectively. The second axis is dedicated to building structures, elevated construction, and open spaces that encourage exploration of the bog. This intentional layout enhances visitor engagement while maintaining connections to the local landscape.

Functional Areas

The design includes several pavilions, each serving different purposes. These contain an information and ticket center, a café bar with kitchen facilities, and an exhibition area that integrates a souvenir shop. The interconnected pavilions are aligned along the designated axes, which makes them easy to access. Separating public and private areas contributes to a comfortable atmosphere for visitors, allowing them to enjoy their time in the center.

Construction and Materiality

Construction relies on a structural system of concrete piles and joists, which supports a timber-framed assembly. The building features layers such as wooden weatherboarding, a ventilated cavity, insulation, and an insulated wooden frame. These elements combined offer stability and improve energy efficiency, showcasing a focus on responsible design practices.

Site Integration

The visitor center is designed to connect visually with the surrounding landscape. Large, ceiling-high windows frame the bog views, inviting natural light into the spaces. This thoughtful design promotes a strong link between the indoor environment and the outdoors. The layout considers shading and shelter carefully, ensuring that visitors are comfortable as they engage with the landscape around them.

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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

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