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Concrete Reservoir with Steel Columns Supporting Varied Landscape Views

Author:
Elias Bourbia
Concrete Reservoir with Steel Columns Supporting Varied Landscape Views

Project in-detail

A concrete reservoir integrates with steel columns to provide a 360° view of the surrounding landscape, serving as both a lookout tower and a practical water source for agricultural use.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure is oriented to the four cardinal points, enhancing views in all directions.
02
It features a central concrete reservoir for agricultural water distribution.
03
The entry sequence incorporates steel columns and mesh for a unique transition experience.
04
Four staircases allow access to five stories, each offering varied perspectives.
05
A balcony extends along the top floor, providing unobstructed landscape views.

The Viewing Amphora is located in the Vidzeme region of East Latvia, near Valga. Positioned between a forest and farmland, it serves two main functions: as a lookout tower and a water reservoir. The design concept focuses on creating a structure that interacts with its surroundings while providing a practical purpose. The form resembles a modern amphora, inviting visitors to engage with it and the landscape around it.

Design Concept
The Viewing Amphora stands tall and can be seen from a distance, making it a noticeable feature in the landscape. It is oriented according to the four cardinal points, giving each side a different view. This layout allows visitors to experience the various aspects of the environment. The straightforward form emphasizes clarity and helps visitors navigate the space easily.

Functional Integration
At the center of the building is a concrete reservoir that collects and distributes water, particularly for agricultural use, including horses. The entrance leads visitors through a space framed by steel columns and mesh. They pass under a dome connected to the reservoir. This pathway creates a journey that highlights both movement and the building's utility.

Architectural Experience
The structure has five stories, each offering different perspectives of the surroundings. Four staircases provide access, making it easy to explore the various levels. The top floor has a square layout that can open and close, allowing it to adapt to weather and seasonal changes. This flexibility adds character to the design, ensuring it remains functional in different conditions.

Design Detail
Along the top floor runs a balcony about 2 meters wide, affording clear views of the landscape. This feature allows visitors to connect with the natural setting, making the experience more immersive. It reflects the thoughtful relationship between the building and its environment, illustrating how architecture can enhance an understanding of place.

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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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