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Charred Timber Structure With Suspended Stairs for Elevated Observation

Authors:
Andrius Daujotas, Tautvilė Džiugytė
Charred Timber Structure With Suspended Stairs for Elevated Observation

Project in-detail

Elevated 10 meters above the ground, a structure of charred timber features suspended staircases and an interactive wooden path, providing unique vantage points for observing the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The tower features a suspended staircase system, eliminating traditional supports for enhanced visibility.
02
It integrates charred wood timber, providing durability and a unique aesthetic.
03
Three observation levels are designed to encourage interaction with the surrounding landscape.
04
The ground path has sections submerged in water, allowing visitors to engage directly with the environment.
05
Construction methods utilize local materials, minimizing environmental impact while supporting regional craftsmanship.

The BLACK TOWER stands as an intriguing blend of modern design and local tradition. Located in a landscape that embraces natural beauty, the tower offers a space for observation and engagement. Its inspiration comes from the form of a bird’s nest, emphasizing lightness and transparency to create a structure that connects with its environment.

Design Concept

The overall design reflects a deep connection to local architectural practices. The use of wood in construction is prominent, featuring lap joint techniques that highlight craftsmanship and stability. The tower's shape allows it to integrate with the surrounding scenery, enhancing the relationship between human-made structures and nature.

Observation Levels

The tower features three observation levels that provide unique viewpoints for visitors. The ground level serves as the initial entry point, while the middle and top decks rise higher, with the top deck situated 10 meters above ground. This arrangement allows users to experience varying perspectives of the landscape, encouraging exploration and a deeper connection to the surroundings.

Unique Structural Elements

A notable aspect of the design is the staircase system, which is suspended by steel cables instead of conventional supports. This approach adds to the tower's overall lightness and enables clear sightlines from each observation level. The absence of traditional supports creates a visual connection to the surrounding views and enhances the sense of openness.

Ground Path Design

The ground path leading to the tower is constructed of wood and features a segmented layout. Portions of this path are above water, while others are submerged, providing a varied experience for visitors. This design invites people to pause and engage with the landscape. Some sections even allow for foot immersion in the water, creating opportunities for reflection and relaxation along the journey to the tower.

Charred Wood Timber

One of the materials used in the tower is charred wood timber. This choice not only gives the structure a natural look but also contributes to its durability against harsh weather conditions. Utilizing locally sourced materials underscores a commitment to sustainability. The design reflects the region's character while ensuring that the tower remains functional and resilient.

The thoughtful transition from the solid base of the tower to open observation areas allows visitors to engage with the landscape. It creates spaces for moments of pause, reflection, and connection to nature, enriching the overall experience.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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