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Birch Facade Tower Emphasizing Natural Materials and Observational Experience

Authors:
Luiz Felipe Nunes Theodorico, Bruno Schaffel Garcia
Birch Facade Tower Emphasizing Natural Materials and Observational Experience
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Crafted with a facade of reused birch branches and a structure of pine wood, the observatory tower offers 360-degree views of the Kemeri landscape, inviting users to engage deeply with nature while facilitating accessibility and contemplation.
5 key facts about this project
01
The observatory incorporates a ramp with a maximum slope of 8.33% for superior accessibility.
02
Each landing along the ramp allows for rest and enhanced views of the landscape.
03
The tower stands 6 meters tall, providing a significant elevation for observation.
04
The structure utilizes locally sourced pine wood to reflect the natural environment.
05
Reused birch branches form the facade, creating a unique visual identity while blending with the surroundings.

Panoramic Kemeri is located in Kemeri, a region recognized for its rich natural scenery. This observatory tower is designed to connect visitors with nature by offering a unique space for observation and appreciation of the surroundings. The design promotes a variety of perspectives on the landscape, encouraging engagement with the environment while prioritizing ease of access and inclusivity.

Design Concept

The observatory tower stands as the main feature of the site, allowing individuals to take in multiple viewpoints of the surrounding natural landscape. This structure does not just serve as a lookout but integrates into the environment itself. By encouraging quiet reflection, the design fosters a deeper relationship between users and nature, drawing attention to the sensory elements present in the landscape.

Accessibility Features

Accessibility played a crucial role in the design process. The observatory includes a ramp with landings situated every 6 meters to facilitate movement for all visitors. The structure reaches a height of 6 meters and features a total ramp length of 72 meters divided into sections, allowing for gradual ascent. This careful consideration of accessibility ensures that everyone can engage with the space comfortably.

Structural Integrity

The framework consists of pine wood, providing both an organic look and the necessary support for the structure. Due to limited vehicle access, assembly took place on-site. Choosing this material aligns the architecture with the surrounding nature, creating a space that feels familiar and connected to its environment.

Facade Design

An envelope of reused birch branches creates the building's facade, skillfully arranged to limit visibility into the interior while enhancing the overall visual interest. The design reinforces a sense of privacy while blending the structure into the surrounding landscape. With various patterns formed by the branches, the facade invites exploration and curiosity while also serving a functional purpose.

At the top of the observatory, a contemplation area offers a serene space for reflection. This zone, measuring 14 square meters, allows visitors to engage deeply with the landscape below. The combination of thoughtful design and natural materials enhances the experience of being in nature, making it a meaningful place for observation and tranquility.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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