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Concrete Ramps and Steel Framework Elevate the Experience of Nature Viewing

Author:
Angelo Guastella
Concrete Ramps and Steel Framework Elevate the Experience of Nature Viewing

Project in-detail

The construction utilizes concrete ramps and steel framing to create a dynamic structure that invites visitors to engage with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Ramps create a labyrinthine experience that encourages exploration.
02
The design offers a 360-degree view from a central observation room.
03
Concrete finishes enhance durability and reduce maintenance needs.
04
Steel framing allows for expansive openings while maintaining structural integrity.
05
Wood finishes provide warmth, enhancing visitor comfort in observation areas.

The Kurgi observation tower is designed to elevate the viewer's perspective of the surrounding landscape while providing an engaging experience. Located within a carefully selected environment, the design concept revolves around the interaction of spaces created by ramps and landings. These elements guide visitors upward, encouraging exploration and a connection with the natural setting.

Design and Spatial Experience

The layout of the ramps introduces a sense of movement and encourages individuals to journey through varying elevation levels. This thoughtful design enhances the experience, allowing visitors to discover different viewpoints as they navigate the tower. The arrangement creates a narrative that shifts from open spaces to quieter, enclosed areas, inviting reflection.

Observational Focus

Central to the design is the 360-degree observation room, which serves as the climax of the visitor's journey. This space provides a complete view of the surrounding area, allowing observers to appreciate the landscape from multiple perspectives. This observation feature fosters a stronger relationship between the structure and its natural context, emphasizing the significance of the environment.

Material Application

The exterior of the Kurgi observation tower features concrete finishes on the walls and ramps, ensuring durability. Steel structural framing supports the building, allowing for wide openings that enhance its visual appeal. An aluminum coating on the exterior provides a modern look and protects against weather conditions.

User-Centric Features

Inside, the tower utilizes a plasterboard ceiling supported by steel and enhanced with LED lighting. This design maximizes light within the enclosed spaces. The curtain wall system, which includes glass panels and aluminum frames, blends the interior with the outdoors while inviting ample natural light. Wood finishes on the landings and floors add warmth and comfort for visitors.

The careful inclusion of reinforced screed and insulation in the flooring increases usability, ensuring that the observation spaces remain functional and inviting. The overall design offers a balanced atmosphere where visitors can engage meaningfully with both the space and the landscape.

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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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