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Conical Structure Crafted from Charred Wooden Shingles Overlooking Native Landscapes

Authors:
Shun Adachi, Miu Tanaka
Conical Structure Crafted from Charred Wooden Shingles Overlooking Native Landscapes

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wooden shingles and featuring a conical form that melds with the natural landscape, the observation tower offers an immersive experience into the diverse ecosystems of Kemeri National Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
The observation tower features a conical shape inspired by local natural forms, enhancing its integration with the landscape.
02
Charred wooden shingles create a unique façade that promotes durability while minimizing maintenance needs.
03
The design incorporates cross-laminated timber panels, offering structural strength and sustainability in construction.
04
Interactive sensory elements are included to engage visitors with the environment, appealing to multiple senses.
05
The tower’s elevated platforms provide unobstructed views of the diverse ecosystems within Kemeri National Park.
The Kemeri National Park Observation Tower represents a thoughtful integration of architecture with the natural landscape of Latvia, aiming to enhance visitor experiences while promoting inclusivity. Situated within the Kemeri National Park, this project serves as a focal point for appreciating the lush surroundings and fostering a deeper connection between humans and nature. The tower is not merely a vantage point; it is an architectural embodiment of sensory engagement, designed to stimulate sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste.

Functionally, the observation tower facilitates extensive views of the park's unique ecosystems, allowing visitors to observe local wildlife and the diverse plant life that characterizes this area. The design encourages exploration and interaction, integrating pathways that accommodate individuals with varying abilities. By focusing on accessibility, the tower ensures that all visitors can enjoy the natural beauty surrounding them, making it a space for education and enjoyment for everyone.

The architectural design features a distinctive conical shape, which is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. This form reduces the visual impact on the landscape while fostering a sense of harmony with the environment. The design is complemented by the use of sustainable materials that resonate with the park's ecological ethos. Primary materials include wood, which offers an organic quality and warmth, glass that provides clear sightlines to the horizon, and metal that delivers durability for structural elements.

One of the unique aspects of this architectural project is its approach to enhancing the sensory experience of visitors. The ground level boasts interactive features that encourage tactile exploration, while the elevated viewing platforms provide opportunities for visual and auditory engagement with the environment. For example, specialized design elements amplify the natural sounds of the landscape, creating a dynamic auditory experience that complements the visual beauty of the scenery.

Furthermore, the incorporation of sensory plants around the base of the tower enriches the overall experience by inviting visitors to engage with their sense of smell. Elements that celebrate local culinary traditions ensure that taste is included, making the experience multi-layered and immersive. Such thoughtful consideration of the human sensory experience reflects a progressive trend in contemporary architectural design, where the focus extends beyond the confines of the building to include the surrounding environment.

The architectural design reflects an understanding of the cultural heritage of the region, as it draws inspiration from traditional thatched-roof structures. This connection to the local context not only respects history but also enhances the authenticity of the visitor's experience. The design ensures that the tower serves as a natural extension of the landscape, further encouraging a perception of unity between the building and the park itself.

As a result, the Kemeri National Park Observation Tower stands as a testament to the possibilities of architecture when it actively engages with its environment. The careful consideration of materiality, form, and sensory interaction makes this project a relevant case study in modern architectural design. Visitors are invited to explore the project presentation further to gain a deeper understanding of the intricate architectural plans, sections, and design ideas that contributed to this unique structure.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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