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Tree-Supported Bridge Featuring Water Drainage System and Modular Decking

Author:
Mohammad reza Khakpour
Tree-Supported Bridge Featuring Water Drainage System and Modular Decking

Project in-detail

A bridge supported by trees and designed with a water drainage system enhances pedestrian access within Gauja National Park while integrating seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Tree supports serve as structural elements, reducing material use.
02
The design incorporates a rainwater drainage system that nourishes local vegetation.
03
Ramps are designed wider at the base for improved pedestrian flow.
04
The modular decking allows for easy maintenance and replacement.
05
Organic shapes mimic the surrounding landscape, enhancing visual integration.

The design located in Gauja National Park is centered on melding a new structure with the surrounding landscape, enhancing the experience for visitors. Set in Latvia's beautiful natural environment, the project aims to celebrate the area's distinct character through thoughtful design. The concept emphasizes environmental harmony, using a form that connects with the local topography and plant life.

Structural Integration

The design employs soft lines and gentle curves that promote interaction with the landscape. By using trees as natural supports, the structure creates a light appearance that minimizes its visual impact. This choice shows a commitment to integrating architecture with the environment, resulting in a space where natural and built forms coexist.

Visitor Experience

The bridge acts as an important entry point for walkers, connecting with existing paths to create smooth transitions through the park. Ramps are designed wider at their base, allowing for easier movement. This focus on pedestrian flow improves accessibility while keeping the area’s visual harmony intact.

Environmental Considerations

An effective water deck drainage system is part of the design, managing rainwater runoff from the ramps. Channels direct rainwater to nourish nearby plants, encouraging ecological balance. This feature addresses practical drainage needs and reflects a commitment to environmental awareness.

Material Application

The project uses specific materials to ensure durability and strength. A wooden deck offers a sturdy walking surface, while a concrete slab provides solid support. The inclusion of cement board adds longevity, and the steel structure gives necessary stability. These choices align with the overall design goal, enhancing the connection between the built environment and the landscape.

A notable design detail emerges in the way the ramps encourage natural water management, underscoring a respect for the environmental context while marrying functionality with ecological care.

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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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