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Bamboo Structure Integrating Spiral Design for Observation and Community Engagement

Authors:
Delovan Delawer, Chera h. Khalid
Bamboo Structure Integrating Spiral Design for Observation and Community Engagement

Project in-detail

A bamboo structure with an integrated spiral staircase offers panoramic views while promoting community engagement and environmental awareness in Latvia's biosphere reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
Bamboo is the primary structural material, emphasizing sustainability and lightweight design.
02
The tower features a unique bent A-frame design that integrates with the natural landscape.
03
A spiral staircase provides dynamic movement and varying viewpoints throughout the ascent.
04
Expansive glass elements enhance natural light and promote a seamless connection with the environment.
05
The project includes educational components focused on local biodiversity and conservation efforts.
The Zīrgu Ligzda Observation Tower is an architectural project located within the North Latvia Biosphere Reserve. Designed to integrate harmoniously with the surrounding landscape, this structure serves as an observation point, allowing visitors to engage with the natural environment. The tower offers panoramic views while embodying local cultural elements, providing both aesthetic and functional benefits.

The primary function of the Zīrgu Ligzda is to enhance eco-tourism and promote environmental awareness in a region recognized for its biodiversity. Visitors can access multiple viewing platforms, making it an important site for education and appreciation of the area's ecology.

Innovative Structural Design
The design of the Zīrgu Ligzda reflects a careful consideration of materiality and form. Using bamboo as the primary structural element, the tower is lightweight yet durable. This choice emphasizes sustainability and aligns with the surrounding natural environment. The exterior incorporates reinforced concrete and steel to ensure structural stability while providing a contrast to the organic materials. Expansive glass areas optimize natural light and provide unobstructed views of the landscape, further enhancing the visitor experience.

The unique geometric form of the tower emerges organically from the site's topography, creating a visual dialogue between architecture and nature. The inclusion of a spiral staircase promotes a dynamic flow of movement, allowing visitors to ascend while experiencing varying perspectives of the landscape.

Engagement with Nature and Culture
Zīrgu Ligzda stands apart from similar structures by seamlessly blending architectural design with cultural symbolism. It draws inspiration from traditional Latvian motifs, fostering a sense of identity and connection to local heritage. The tower acts not only as an observation point but also as a space for community interaction and educational activities focused on local biodiversity, including the conservation of native horse breeds and other endemic species.

The architectural plans showcase a thoughtful integration of public space and private contemplation areas, allowing visitors to engage with the environment at their own pace. Architectural sections reveal how the structure responds to different climatic conditions, ensuring comfort for users.

Visit the project's presentation to explore architectural designs, sections, and plans that illustrate the intricate details and thoughtful design approaches of Zīrgu Ligzda. A deeper look into its architectural ideas can provide valuable insights into contemporary strategies for eco-sensitive design within public spaces.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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