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Cantilevered Observation Tower Crafted with Steel and Glass Overlooking Biodiverse Landscapes

Author:
Ábel Györgyi
Cantilevered Observation Tower Crafted with Steel and Glass Overlooking Biodiverse Landscapes

Project in-detail

With a unique triangular form supported by steel cables, this tower integrates cantilevered balconies that offer sweeping views of the surrounding biodiversity, serving as a vital observation point for nature enthusiasts and the community.
5 key facts about this project
01
The tower features an innovative triangular footprint that minimizes its environmental footprint while maximizing structural integrity.
02
Cantilevered balconies provide unobstructed views and create dynamic outdoor spaces, enhancing visitor interaction with the natural surroundings.
03
The use of steel cables not only supports the structure but also contributes to the visual lightness of the design, allowing for openness and transparency.
04
Sustainability is emphasized through the integration of solar panels, which reduce energy consumption and promote eco-friendly practices.
05
The interior layout is designed to encourage flow and social interaction, making it a flexible space for community gatherings and events.
The Kurgi Tower project is a carefully conceived architectural endeavor located within the North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve in Latvia. This design showcases a harmonious blend of modern architecture and natural landscape, emphasizing an immersive experience that allows visitors to connect with the surrounding environment. The tower serves as a vantage point, providing a unique perspective on the rich biodiversity of the reserve, while simultaneously acting as a recreational space for both locals and tourists.

At its core, the project represents a commitment to sustainability and ecological sensitivity in architectural design. The Kurgi Tower is designed not only for observation but also for fostering community interaction and encouraging exploration. By elevating users above the treetops, the tower provides panoramic views that inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Architecturally, the Kurgi Tower features a spiral configuration that gradually expands and contracts across its multiple levels. This triangular form enhances visual interest and creates a distinct silhouette within the forested landscape. Each floor is uniquely designed to optimize the viewing experience while reducing the building's overall footprint, emphasizing a low-impact strategy that respects the ecological integrity of its location.

Significant details of the project include the central vertical core, which houses essential elements such as elevators and stairwells. This core is complemented by cantilevered balconies that extend outwards, allowing visitors to enjoy uninterrupted vistas. The interplay of these structural components creates a dynamic spatial experience, where users can experience varying levels of openness and enclosure as they ascend the tower.

Materiality plays a critical role in the Kurgi Tower’s design. The use of steel provides both structural integrity and aesthetic lightness, allowing for an elegant construction that blends with the natural surroundings. Glass facades are utilized to establish transparency, fostering a seamless connection between interior spaces and the landscape. Stretched steel cables serve as both a functional and artistic element, supporting the cantilevered structures while minimizing visual bulk.

The interior spaces are designed with simplicity in mind, featuring open-plan layouts that facilitate natural movement and interaction among users. Natural materials, such as wood, are incorporated into the design, creating a warm atmosphere that echoes the organic forms found in the surrounding ecological context. Thoughtful lighting design enhances the user experience by maximizing natural light during the day and providing a comfortable ambiance at night.

One of the standout features of the Kurgi Tower is its environmentally responsible approach. The incorporation of renewable energy systems, such as solar panels on the roof, demonstrates a dedication to sustainability. This focus on reducing the ecological footprint encapsulates the values of the project, encouraging a modern architectural practice that is both functional and environmentally conscious.

In summary, the Kurgi Tower represents a forward-thinking approach to architectural design, emphasizing connection to nature, community engagement, and sustainability. Its innovative use of materials and unique structural elements create an inviting environment for exploration and reflection. To gain deeper insights into the project, including architectural plans, sections, and specific design ideas, interested readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further.
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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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