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Circular Viewing Platform Enhanced by Tensioned Steel and Natural Reeds

Author:
Sara Pousti
Circular Viewing Platform Enhanced by Tensioned Steel and Natural Reeds
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Elevated 3 meters above the ground, a circular platform supported by tensioned steel cables and natural reeds offers unobstructed 360-degree views of flamingos in their native habitat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated observation platform allows for a 360-degree view of wildlife.
02
Supported by tensioned steel cables, reducing material footprint.
03
Integrates natural reeds for fencing, enhancing ecological harmony.
04
Boardwalk features varied elevations for improved user interaction.
05
Constructed with low-energy materials prioritizing sustainability.

The Oculus Tower serves as an observational structure designed to provide an intimate viewing experience of flamingos in their natural habitat. Located in an ecological area, it features a circular design that offers visitors panoramic views while being mindful of the surrounding environment. The goal is to enhance user interaction with wildlife through careful integration into the landscape.

Structural Design

Standing at a height of 3 meters, the tower employs a unique structural approach that uses tension to lift the viewing platform. Steel cables connecting to vertical columns create a lightweight design that reduces the footprint of the structure. This method conserves ground area and decreases any visual impact on the landscape, aligning with principles of sustainable architecture.

Materials Selection

Durability and ecological responsibility characterize the materials chosen for the tower. The platform features a concrete floor slab, which provides stability and requires low energy for production. This choice supports long-term use. In addition, stainless steel is used in the lifting mechanism, contributing to the overall environmentally friendly design and ensuring that the structure remains robust over time.

User Interaction

The boardwalk surrounding the tower introduces varying elevations, allowing for pathways that encourage exploration of the landscape. Some sections climb above ground level, while others follow the terrain closely. This design invites visitors to engage directly with the environment, enhancing the overall experience while prioritizing the preservation of local wildlife.

Natural Aesthetic

The fencing around the tower is constructed from reed structures, reinforcing a natural look that blends with the surroundings. This renewable material supports the project's ecological goals, creating a design that is both functional and visually cohesive. Handrails made of palm reeds and jute rope add charming details, enhancing both safety and the overall sense of connection to nature. Each design feature is thoughtfully integrated to promote harmony with the habitat while fulfilling practical needs.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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