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Wood and Steel Integration Enhances Natural Passage Through The Gauja Landscape

Author:
Don-marc pascal Oppenländer
Wood and Steel Integration Enhances Natural Passage Through The Gauja Landscape

Project in-detail

Incorporating acetylated wood and stainless steel, the design offers a functional crossing over the Gauja River, enhancing connectivity while integrating with the natural landscape of the national park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed to integrate with the natural landscape, the bridge follows the original course of the Gauja River.
02
Constructed with acetylated wood, the design minimizes environmental impact while enhancing durability.
03
The bridge features strategically placed signage that remains discreet yet informative for drivers.
04
It includes elastomeric bearings to ensure longevity and resilience under varying weather conditions.
05
The structure accommodates both vehicular and pedestrian traffic, promoting accessibility within the national park.

The Gauja Riverbridge acts as an important link to Gauja National Park in Latvia, enhancing the flow of movement while connecting visitors to the surrounding natural beauty. Designed for both vehicles and pedestrians, the bridge aligns with the original course of the Gauja River. This design emphasizes connectivity and an appreciation of the environment.

Design Intent

The bridge's layout accommodates various user needs. Vehicles, such as cars and mobile homes, can pass underneath, allowing for smooth transit while preserving the natural landscape. This thoughtful arrangement reflects a focus on both functionality and visual appeal, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone.



Environmental Considerations

Sustainability is a key aspect of the bridge's design. Careful attention has been paid to minimize carbon emissions in material selection and construction methods. Components include stainless steel elements and handrails made from acetylated wood, chosen for their strength and lower environmental impact. This approach aligns with the ecological goals of the national park, showing a commitment to environmental responsibility.



User Experience

The design encourages active interaction with the bridge. Signage is placed strategically to convey information to drivers without creating unnecessary distractions. This enhances the experience for users, allowing them to take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape as they travel. The bridge serves not just as a pathway but as a part of the park itself.



Structural Details

Details in the construction reflect a commitment to durability and function. Wooden cladding and supporting structures are integrated into the design, blending with the natural environment. Features such as elastomeric bearings and sealing levels ensure the bridge can withstand various weather conditions. Additionally, attachment points for steel ropes contribute to overall safety and strength, focusing on longevity and reliability in design.

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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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