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Capturing Water Through Cloud Fishing and Laminated Wood in a Volcanic Observatory

Authors:
Karin White Oberholzer, Paolo Petrino
Capturing Water Through Cloud Fishing and Laminated Wood in a Volcanic Observatory
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Utilizing a cloud fisher system to capture atmospheric moisture and framed by laminated wood, the tower serves as an observatory within a unique volcanic landscape, blending sustainability with functionality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cloud fisher system collects atmospheric moisture for sustainable water supply.
02
Laminated wood structure enhances both aesthetic and structural performance.
03
Viewing platform offers filtered perspectives of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
04
Modular design allows for flexible use of space throughout the tower.
05
Geothermal energy systems support heating and electricity needs autonomously.

The Cloud Tower is a carefully designed structure set in a volcanic landscape, serving as an observatory and a landmark. It combines essential functions in one building while aiming to limit its impact on the environment. Positioned at the junction of existing pathways and parking areas, the tower connects with the natural terrain and enhances visitor access.

Integration of Modular Systems

The design makes use of a modular system to improve functionality and flexibility. Modules are placed along designated paths, accommodating various services based on user needs. Visitors enter the tower and are guided through a circulation route that provides filtered views of the surroundings. This experience leads to a viewing platform offering broad vistas of the impressive landscape.

Sustainability Features

A notable aspect of the Cloud Tower is the cloud fisher system, which is designed to capture moisture from the atmosphere. This feature contributes to the building's sustainability and changes its appearance with the seasons. Specific surfaces are engineered to attract moisture, directing it into storage tanks, while the net's density is optimized to perform well against wind conditions.

Material Considerations

The structure utilizes laminated wood for its framework, which promotes efficiency and sustainability. Rock wool insulation enhances thermal performance, an important factor in this specific environment. The design also includes double thermo-formed polycarbonate for circular openings, which allows natural light to enter while framing views of the surrounding area. PDM gaskets provide airtight seals around these openings, contributing to energy efficiency.

Geothermal Systems

The tower includes geothermal energy systems to meet heating and electricity needs. This aspect reinforces the goal of energy independence. Electrical and water systems are integrated throughout the building's core, showcasing how different systems can work together in a sustainable manner.

The observation platform at the Cloud Tower extends outward, providing clear, panoramic views. This design encourages visitors to connect with the vast volcanic landscape and enjoy the changing scenery from a unique vantage point.

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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.

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
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