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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

Project in-detail

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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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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