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Charred Wood and Steel Tower Offering Immersive Nature Engagement Through Elevated Gallery Spaces

Authors:
Yuxuan Tu, Yue Zhang
Charred Wood and Steel Tower Offering Immersive Nature Engagement Through Elevated Gallery Spaces

Project in-detail

Elevated above the landscape, a tower of charred wood and steel invites visitors to explore immersive gallery spaces that redefine interaction with nature through thoughtfully curated thematic exhibitions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a bent A-frame design, optimizing structural integrity while enhancing aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for increased durability and fire resistance, blending tradition with modern techniques.
03
Features large spans of cross-laminated timber panels that promote sustainability and reduce carbon footprint.
04
Integrates extensive glazing to create seamless visual connections with the surrounding landscape, enhancing visitor experience.
05
Offers thematic gallery rooms that guide visitors through different elements of the local ecosystem, encouraging engagement and exploration.
The project, known as the Gallery of Nature, presents a thoughtful exploration of the interplay between architecture and the natural environment. This architectural design strives to connect visitors with the surrounding landscape through a series of gallery spaces elevated within a tower structure. The central idea revolves around elevating the experience of nature, allowing observers to view their environment from a vantage point that fosters contemplation and appreciation.

Functionally, the Gallery of Nature serves as both an artistic gallery and an observation tower, providing a unique venue where art and nature converge. Each of the distinct gallery rooms is dedicated to a specific aspect of the local ecosystem, representing themes such as grasslands, woodlands, and skies. Visitors progress through these thematic spaces, engaging with the architecture while deepening their understanding of the natural context that surrounds them. This design approach promotes a sense of journey, transforming what might typically be a static viewing experience into one that is dynamic and immersive.

Significant design elements characterize the Gallery of Nature, starting with its vertical orientation. The tower's height not only makes it a landmark within the landscape but also enhances the viewing experience. Visitors can ascend through a series of interconnected gallery rooms, each designed to frame particular views of the environment, thereby facilitating a continuous interaction with the scenery. This verticality is accentuated through the careful use of glazing and transparency in the building’s materials, which allow ample natural light to fill the interior spaces while providing unobstructed views of the surroundings.

Materiality plays a vital role in the project’s design philosophy. The use of a steel frame provides a strong structural foundation, enabling the building’s height while allowing for expansive glass panels. These glass elements are not merely functional; they serve to invite the outside world in, creating a seamless connection to nature. Additionally, timber is employed in the interiors of the gallery rooms to create warmth and intimacy, establishing an inviting atmosphere for visitors. Concrete is utilized in foundational and service areas, ensuring that the primary focus remains on the ethereal aspects of the design.

The circulation within the tower is innovatively conceived to facilitate exploration. Rather than a conventional staircase, the project incorporates ramps and flowing pathways that guide visitors upward while encouraging engagement with the various exhibition spaces. This design choice promotes a more leisurely exploration, allowing individuals to contemplate their surroundings and the artwork housed within each gallery room.

Natural light is an integral component of the Gallery of Nature’s design. Each gallery room is equipped with a continuous lighting system that complements the abundant daylight, creating an environment that feels both natural and curated. The balance of artificial and natural light enhances the ambience of each gallery while allowing the changing weather and daylight conditions to play a role in the visitor experience.

What sets the Gallery of Nature apart is its holistic approach to architectural design. By prioritizing transparency, thematic engagement, and innovative circulation, the project transcends traditional gallery spaces, instead becoming a medium through which visitors can actively engage with nature. The careful consideration of materiality further emphasizes a commitment to sustainability and respect for the environment, reflecting modern architectural ideals.

To gain a deeper understanding of the Gallery of Nature and its design implications, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. Engaging with components such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas will provide valuable insights into how this project honors the relationship between built environments and the natural world. Discovering these elements can enhance appreciation for the thoughtful design and innovative approaches present in this remarkable project.
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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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