The Discovery Tower is located in the North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve in Latvia, a region defined by its varied landscapes, including plains and farmland. Designed as a multifunctional space, the tower aims to encourage education, collaboration, and appreciation of the natural surroundings. The overall concept focuses on merging the building with its environment, using form and function to enhance the experience for all who visit.

Design Integration

The form of the Discovery Tower includes organic openings in its outer shell, which allow natural light and air to flow into the interior. These openings provide visitors with expansive views of the biosphere reserve, emphasizing the connection between the structure and the surrounding landscape. The design seeks to minimize the separation between inside and outside.



Functional Spaces

The first floor serves as an informational area where visitors can find local services, news, and details about the biosphere. This level is designed with comfort in mind, featuring seating areas and restrooms. The second floor shifts focus to more specific functions, such as selling tickets for tours and organizing educational activities. This setup encourages exploration and interaction among visitors.



Connectivity and Interaction

A defining characteristic of the design is the use of half levels connecting different floors. This design choice enhances movement throughout the building and creates opportunities for users to interact. Informal seating areas on these half levels also invite social engagement and reflection, making the transition between spaces more dynamic.



Co-Working Environment

The third floor is dedicated to coworking and research, providing a semi-private space for students and researchers. The design here supports collaboration, with layouts that encourage discussion and the sharing of ideas. Adjacent to this area, the top floor features a meeting hall with a coffee shop, which adds to the interactive atmosphere. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy wide views of the area's natural beauty.



The structure employs stereotomy, a technique that balances the distribution of weight across inclined surfaces, contributing to both its visual appeal and structural stability. Through careful consideration of space and user experience, the Discovery Tower plays a vital role in its ecological setting, inviting visitors to engage with both the natural world and the local community.