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Circular Observation Tower with Rope Facade and Wood Walkways

Author:
Jose Antonio Muñoz Gomez
Circular Observation Tower with Rope Facade and Wood Walkways
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Constructed with a circular form and a unique facade of ropes, the observation tower enhances the visitor experience in the Al Wathba Waterland Reserve by providing panoramic views of its diverse ecosystem.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular design enables 360-degree views of the landscape.
02
Boat ropes provide a unique sun-shading facade.
03
Wooden walkways create connectivity throughout the reserve.
04
Integration of resting points supports local bird species.
05
Multiple observation zones enhance visitor engagement.

Set within the Al Wathba Waterland Reserve, Al Wathba Towers fosters interaction with the surrounding landscape. The design includes a bird observation tower that provides a viewpoint for visitors while encouraging an engagement with the diverse flora and fauna. The concept focuses on creating an experience centered around observation and exploration, allowing visitors to connect with the environment.

Materials and Structure

The structure combines steel, wood, and strings, which contribute to its durability and cost-effectiveness. The circular shape of the observation tower enables expansive views of the reservation, which enhances the visitor's connection to the ecosystem. The exterior is covered with a skin made of boat ropes. This material choice allows for moderated light and ventilation inside the tower, fostering a comfortable atmosphere for birdwatching.

Visitor Experience

An important part of the design is the wooden walkway leading to the observation tower. This pathway helps visitors navigate the reserve while establishing a connection with nature. As they walk along, they encounter different heights and shapes that encourage exploration. The design creates a multi-sensory experience, inviting individuals to appreciate their surroundings.

Environment Integration

Connectivity is a key theme in the project, illustrated by additional structures such as suspension bridges and zip lines. These features facilitate exploration and provide more opportunities for viewing the landscape. Resting points along the pathways are included to support local bird species, enhancing the ecological experience for visitors.

The design establishes a calming environment where light and shadow play within the observation area. This creates a space that invites contemplation and helps visitors feel closer to nature. The overall approach reflects an understanding of the landscape and offers enriching experiences within the Al Wathba Waterland Reserve.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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