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Translucent Acrylic Panels and Steel Framework Enhancing Eco-Friendly Connectivity

Authors:
João Sá couto, Diogo Mina
Translucent Acrylic Panels and Steel Framework Enhancing Eco-Friendly Connectivity

Project in-detail

Translucent acrylic panels and a robust steel framework converge to create a footbridge that enhances accessibility through Galija National Park while respecting the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent acrylic panels enhance natural light flow while maintaining safety.
02
The robust steel framework ensures durability with minimal visual obstruction.
03
Integrated landscaping promotes local biodiversity and user engagement.
04
Wide pathways accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists for improved access.
05
LED lighting fixtures are seamlessly embedded for nighttime visibility and safety.
The Galija National Park Footbridge Project is a purpose-driven structure designed to enhance accessibility within a natural park environment. This architectural design serves as a connection point between various walking and cycling trails, facilitating movement across a busy highway while minimizing disruption to the surrounding ecosystem. The project aims to integrate seamlessly with its landscape while providing a safe and inviting passage for its users.

Design Approach and Unique Elements

The footbridge employs innovative design strategies focusing on transparency and minimal environmental impact. With an emphasis on allowing natural light and landscape views, the use of acrylic panels in the railing allows for increased visibility while maintaining safety. This design choice not only achieves functional goals but also enhances the user's experience of the surrounding environment. In addition, the bridge’s structural components utilize steel to provide robustness without overwhelming the delicate natural context.

This project also prioritizes user experience. The layout features wide pathways that accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists, carefully considering the flow of movement. Integrated landscaping along the footbridge promotes biodiversity and adds to the aesthetic quality of the project, further blurring the line between built and natural environments. This approach enhances usability and ensures that the bridge complements its geographical setting.

Sustainable Material Usage and Construction

Material selection plays a crucial role in the architectural integrity of the footbridge. Steel serves as the primary material for structural support, providing long-lasting durability against the elements. The inclusion of concrete in areas requiring high load capacity ensures stability. Meanwhile, the acrylic panels selected for their translucent qualities contribute to the overall transparency effect, allowing light to permeate the structure and creating an open ambiance.

Integrating LED lighting fixtures into the design also enhances functionality. These fixtures are strategically placed to ensure safety during nighttime use while aligning with the overall aesthetics of the bridge. This attention to detail illustrates a commitment to thoughtful design choices that favor usability and environmental harmony.

For those interested in a deeper dive into the architectural concepts driving the Galija National Park Footbridge Project, explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs presented. These elements provide valuable insights into the architectural ideas and methodologies applied throughout the project.
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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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