DJA winds a wooden path and viewing terrace through forest in latvia

latvian architecture firm DJA inserted a wooden pedestrian path and view terrace in the park of senses in valmiera, latvia. the project is designed to provide a beautiful view and comfortable access to the neighboring river gauja. the wooden ribbon complements the surrounding nature and creates a place of peaceful retreat.

DJA pruned the 100m-long pedestrian gravel road of 100m length from an existing asphalted road. the path gradually changes into a timber path and organically transforms into a view terrace by the river. 

the bench in the front of the terrace, closer to the waterside, climbs up from the relief naturally, keeping the smooth transformation from the pathway. the rear of the terrace is created as a seating area that gradually turns into a more relaxed, lounge environment. a curved wall separates visitors approaching the terrace from back and those who are enjoying the view from a lounger.

the terrace is raised from the ground, as the part of the landscaped area is within a flood zone. on average every ten years all pedestrian path is under water. the circular shape is partly designed to follow the turning radius of the cars, taking into account the need of accessibility of the emergency vehicles to river. 

the load bearing structure of the terrace is made of 49 pine wood frames and concrete slabs are used at some parts where water pipes run. the terrace is finished with larch planks with special anti-slip mills. its curved aesthetic and DJA’s project’s raw materiality makes the path a pleasant stop in the latvian woods. 

project info:

architects: DJA 

building area: 1830 m2 

photography: eriks bozis 

completion year: 2019

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: cristina gomez | designboom