Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Circular Observation Platform Crafted With Sustainable Timber and Transparent Design Features

Authors:
Chunan Chen, Kelvin Lui
Circular Observation Platform Crafted With Sustainable Timber and Transparent Design Features

Project in-detail

A circular observation platform utilizes sustainable timber and large glass panels to create a seamless connection with nature, offering an immersive experience in the heart of Kemeri National Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular ramp provides accessible ascent for all visitors.
02
Integration of transparent glass panels enhances visibility and engagement with nature.
03
Prefabricated components minimize onsite construction time and environmental impact.
04
Atrium allows for natural light and ventilation throughout the structure.
05
Design draws inspiration from the organic shapes of amber found in the region.

### Overview

The Observation Tower-Amber is situated within Kemeri National Park in Latvia, an area celebrated for its unspoiled landscapes and rich biodiversity. The structure is designed to promote engagement with the natural environment while reflecting the significance of amber in Latvian culture. The project aims to create a space for observation and contemplation, offering visitors a retreat from urban life and a deeper connection to their surroundings.

### Spatial Strategy and Accessibility

The tower features a circular configuration that provides panoramic views of the park, serving both as a lookout and a communal gathering area. A gently sloping ramp encircles the structure, ensuring accessibility for individuals with varying mobility needs. This design enhances the visitor experience by providing a gradual ascent, allowing for interaction with the landscape throughout the journey. The central atrium facilitates natural ventilation and light, integrating the environment into the building's interior.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The material selection emphasizes local resources, predominantly using timber to align with traditional construction practices while minimizing environmental impact. Key materials include timber for structural elements, glass panels for transparency and light, and a metal framework for structural integrity. Concrete serves as a foundational component, ensuring durability. Additionally, the prefabricated nature of the design, composed of 16 components, promotes efficient assembly and supports sustainable construction methods. This careful consideration of materiality reinforces the project's commitment to environmental stewardship while honoring cultural heritage.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy