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Circular Observation Tower Featuring Transparent Polycarbonate and Sustainable Materials Embedded in a Natural Landscape

Author:
Federico Musso
Circular Observation Tower Featuring Transparent Polycarbonate and Sustainable Materials Embedded in a Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Crafted with transparent polycarbonate panels and sustainable materials, the observation tower rises in a circular form, seamlessly integrating into the landscape while providing varied perspectives for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes transparent polycarbonate for enhanced natural lighting and visibility.
02
Incorporates a winter garden at the third level to promote social interaction.
03
Circular design emphasizes seamless integration with the surrounding landscape.
04
Features a rainwater collection system for sustainability and reduced environmental impact.
05
Accessible observation points on each level offer unique panoramic views.

The Janus Observation Tower is a thoughtfully designed architectural structure that merges functionality with an interactive experience within a natural landscape. Designed as both observation point and social space, the tower serves as a unique platform for visitors to connect with the surrounding environment. Its form and positioning cater to providing diverse perspectives of the scenic vistas, while its integration with nature is fundamental to its design ethos.

The architectural design emphasizes transparency and openness, inviting natural light deep into its interiors. Comprising five levels, each floor is configured to enhance the connection between visitors and the outdoors, offering designated areas for observation, relaxation, and social interaction. The ground level is designed to facilitate access and features an inviting entrance, leading visitors to a continuum of experiences as they ascend.

Integrated Functionality and User Experience

Unique in its approach, the Janus Observation Tower employs a circular form that symbolizes connectivity between internal spaces and the landscape. The design encourages movement through open circulation routes, promoting a sense of exploration. The tower's levels are distinctively planned to cater to varied visitor experiences. For example, the third floor houses a public winter garden that serves as a gathering space, while upper levels offer observation points that provide panoramic views.

Material selection is crucial in this project, with an emphasis on sustainability and visual integration. The use of glass, polycarbonate panels, and aluminum not only facilitates transparency but also ensures structural integrity. The incorporation of sustainable elements, such as solar panels and rainwater collection systems, underscores the project’s commitment to minimizing environmental impact. This careful consideration of materials enhances the durability of the structure while maintaining an inviting aesthetic.

Innovative Circulation and Design Elements

The Janus Observation Tower employs innovative design elements that set it apart from conventional observation structures. The layering of spaces creates opportunities for varied interactions, from solitary reflection to communal engagement. Each observation level offers unique vistas, encouraging visitors to interact with their surroundings from different vantage points.

The integration of natural elements into the design is particularly noteworthy. The open layout maximizes views of the landscape while minimizing barriers, fostering a seamless flow between the interior and the exterior. Additionally, the strategic positioning of the tower maximizes exposure to sunlight, enhancing the overall visitor experience throughout various times of the day.

The project embodies progressive architectural ideas through its commitment to user engagement and environmental responsiveness. The design not only serves functional purposes but also enhances the quality of experience, making it a relevant case study in contemporary architecture.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural approaches and design decisions made within the Janus Observation Tower, it is encouraged to explore the presentation of architectural plans, sections, and innovative design concepts that reflect its unique architectural identity.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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