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Visitor Center with a Fragmented Form and Vegetated Roof Featuring Sustainable Materials in a Natural Landscape

Author:
Michael Ritchie
Visitor Center with a Fragmented Form and Vegetated Roof Featuring Sustainable Materials in a Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Nestled within the serene landscape of a national park, this visitor center features a distinctive fragmented design, large glass facades, and a vegetated roof, all crafted with sustainable materials to enhance the connection between visitors and the natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The visitor center features a vegetated roof that supports local biodiversity and blends seamlessly into the surrounding ecosystem.
02
Utilizing cross-laminated timber panels, the structure enhances its sustainability by reducing carbon footprint while ensuring structural integrity.
03
A unique fragmented form allows for diverse outdoor gathering spaces, promoting community interaction with nature.
04
Large glass facades provide panoramic views of the Great Kemeri Bog while optimizing natural light within the interior.
05
The design incorporates geothermal heating systems, demonstrating a commitment to energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.
The Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Center is an architectural project located in Kemeri National Park, Latvia, designed to enhance the visitor experience while respecting the natural environment. This structure serves multiple functions, including information dissemination, educational exhibits, and facilities for various activities related to the surrounding bog landscape. By integrating the architecture with its setting, the design demonstrates a thoughtful approach to functionality and sustainability.

At its core, the Visitor Center represents a dialogue between the built environment and the natural landscape. The architectural design seeks to create a welcoming space that encourages exploration and interaction with the unique ecological features of the bog. The structure is characterized by a series of interconnected volumes that form a cohesive yet unobtrusive presence within the park. These elements are thoughtfully arranged to create a fluid movement between indoor and outdoor areas, reinforcing the connection to nature.

The layout of the Visitor Center is strategically designed to facilitate visitor flow and accessibility. Large glass facades offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape while flooding the interior spaces with natural light. This transparency allows visitors to engage with the environment even from inside the building, thereby enhancing the overall experience. The center includes various amenities, such as informational displays, rest areas, and spaces designated for activities like workshops and guided tours, catering to a diverse range of visitor needs.

A key aspect of this architectural project is its commitment to sustainability. The design incorporates green building practices, including the use of locally sourced materials and energy-efficient systems. Concrete provides durability and stability, while wooden elements introduce warmth and a connection to the natural surroundings. The inclusion of photovoltaic panels contributes to the building's energy needs, showcasing an innovative approach to renewable energy utilization. Additionally, the vegetated roof not only serves as an aesthetic feature but also contributes to biodiversity by supporting local flora and fauna.

The Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Center stands out due to its unique design approaches that creatively blend architecture with environmental considerations. The fragmented form of the building embodies the spirit of the landscape while allowing for diverse interactions with the outdoors. Communal spaces such as terraces and gathering areas promote social engagement and foster a sense of community among visitors, making the center a vital resource within the park.

In examining the architectural plans, sections, and designs of this project, one can appreciate the intricate considerations taken by the architects to ensure that it fulfills its intended roles seamlessly. The central idea of connectivity is reflected not only in the physical structure but also in how the design aligns with the park’s overarching narrative and ecological framework.

To gain a deeper understanding of this project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans and designs associated with it. Doing so provides valuable insights into the thoughtful ideas and principles guiding the Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Center, illustrating its significance as both an architectural endeavor and a meaningful addition to the Kemeri National Park experience.
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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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