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Charred Wooden Shingles and Suspended Steel Cables Shaping Accessible Viewing Platforms in a Natural Landscape

Author:
Lorenzo Leggeri
Charred Wooden Shingles and Suspended Steel Cables Shaping Accessible Viewing Platforms in a Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Suspended steel cables support panoramic viewpoints framed by charred wooden shingles, providing an accessible platform for visitors to engage with the diverse ecosystems of Kemeri National Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
The tower utilizes charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and integrate with the natural environment.
02
A series of gently sloping ramps ensure full accessibility, accommodating all visitors, including those with mobility challenges.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels support the structure, providing both strength and a warm aesthetic that harmonizes with the landscape.
04
The design strategically positions panoramic viewpoints, allowing users to appreciate key ecological features of the park.
05
Suspended steel cables create a lightweight appearance while reducing the need for intrusive supporting structures.
The observation tower project in Kemeri National Park, Latvia, embodies a thoughtful architectural response to the unique ecological landscape of the area. This project functions not only as an observation point for visitors but also as an educational platform that enhances the understanding of the park's rich biodiversity and natural beauty. Nestled within an area characterized by wetlands and diverse wildlife, the tower has been expertly designed to maximize visitor engagement while minimizing the impact on its delicate surroundings.

At its core, the observation tower serves multiple purposes. It provides a vantage point from which visitors can appreciate the expansive views of the marshlands, contributing to a deeper connection with nature. The structure is designed with accessibility as a priority, featuring a series of gently sloping ramps rather than conventional stairs. This inclusive approach ensures that all visitors, including those with mobility challenges, can engage with the site. The thoughtful integration of accessibility features reflects a modern understanding of user needs in architectural design.

The design incorporates ecological sensitivity at every stage. The tower itself rises to approximately seven meters, allowing for unobstructed sightlines over the park. The innovative use of materials such as wood, steel cables, and concrete not only supports the structure’s durability but also aligns with the natural environment. The wooden components evoke a warm interaction with the landscape, while steel cables create a lightness to the form. This combination helps the structure maintain its presence without overwhelming the surrounding scenery. The footbridge that connects the tower to the main paths of the park has been constructed to blend seamlessly with the environment, allowing visitors to traverse the area with minimal disruption to the local ecosystem.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout this project. The architectural layout emphasizes a sustainable relationship to the site, utilizing materials and construction methods that reflect environmental responsibility. The selection of wood for the main structural elements showcases a commitment to renewable resources, while the durable steel ensures the integrity of the structure over time. Furthermore, the design makes a concerted effort to minimize the visual footprint through its low-profile construction, ensuring that the natural landscape remains the focus for visitors.

Visitors are invited to traverse the carefully designed pathways that lead to the tower, encouraging exploration and engagement with the park’s natural features. The panoramic platform at the top provides an immersive experience, inviting guests to absorb the sights and sounds of the surrounding wetlands. The placement and orientation of the observation points are deliberate, aimed at highlighting views of particular ecological landmarks within the park. Such design considerations underline the intention of the project to serve as a bridge between the visitors and the natural world, fostering appreciation for the ecological diversity present in Kemeri National Park.

The overall design of the observation tower not only enhances visitor experience but also stands as a testament to contemporary architectural practices emphasizing sustainability, accessibility, and a deep respect for the local context. With a focus on educational opportunities, the structure provides a platform for learning about the ecological significance of the area, reinforcing the importance of conservation and awareness among visitors.

For those interested in exploring the finer details of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, a closer look at the presentation materials will offer valuable insights into the thought processes and methodologies that shaped this unique architectural endeavor in Kemeri National Park.
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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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