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WPC Cladding and Natural Forms Promoting Engagement with Nature

Author:
Ahmed Aiad
WPC Cladding and Natural Forms Promoting Engagement with Nature

Project in-detail

Constructed with WPC cladding and inspired by Latvian motifs, the tower offers a looping pathway that facilitates an immersive experience in nature while serving as a gathering space for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
KurgiLoop Tower incorporates WPC cladding that enhances durability while blending with nature.
02
The design features a continuous loop pathway that offers dynamic visitor experiences at varying heights.
03
Traditional Latvian motifs are integrated into the structural and lighting design for cultural relevance.
04
Circular elements at key points provide expansive views of the surrounding landscape.
05
The building promotes accessibility with sloped paths that encourage exploration and engagement.

KurgiLoop Tower is located at Kurgi Farm and aims to improve the experience for visitors through its unique loop design. This structure allows guests to explore and connect with the surrounding landscape from various levels. By blending modern architecture with traditional Latvian motifs, the design creates a functional space that also serves as a point of interest within its natural setting.

Architectural Concept

The design focuses on creating a strong connection between the tower and its environment. Drawing inspiration from traditional Latvian patterns, the form helps to establish a sense of place while enhancing the local cultural identity. The continuous loop facilitates movement throughout the space, encouraging visitors to engage with nature as they journey through the different levels.

Materiality

WPC, or Wood Plastic Composite, is used for the cladding of the steel columns. This choice reflects a commitment to durability while offering a contemporary look. The use of WPC decking further supports visitor pathways, creating walkable surfaces that are both practical and visually pleasing. These materials blend with the site, helping the tower harmonize with its surroundings.

Lighting Integration

The lighting within KurgiLoop Tower is designed to complement the structure and its cultural theme. Inspired by traditional Latvian ornamentation, the lighting design creates a visual connection between the columns and the overarching design concept. The careful placement of lights enhances the aesthetic appeal while guiding visitors through the space, showcasing important views of the landscape.

Design Experience

The overall design experience at KurgiLoop Tower is based on accessibility and interaction with the environment. The sloped paths facilitate easy movement, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace. Circular shapes at key points provide broad visual openings, connecting the interior with the outdoor landscape. This thoughtful design encourages a sense of wonder and engagement, inviting exploration of both the architecture and nature around it.

The integration of these elements results in a structure that invites visitors to appreciate both the design and the beauty of the landscape.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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