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Corten Steel and Lamellas Enhance Accessible Viewing Tower

Authors:
Flavio Cucina, Sara Angellotti, Francesca Rubiu
Corten Steel and Lamellas Enhance Accessible Viewing Tower

Project in-detail

Constructed with Corten steel and thin lamellas, the observation tower offers an accessible vantage point for panoramic views of the landscape while prioritizing user experience and environmental sensitivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Made with Corten steel for durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates thin lamellas to define the inner casing and enhance visual appeal.
03
Features a ramp designed for accessibility with a maximum slope of 8%.
04
Utilizes solar-powered smart regenerative lighting for energy efficiency.
05
Constructed with composite wood boards that include anti-slip surfaces for safety.

The observation tower located at Site A is a well-conceived structure that serves to connect visitors with the surrounding landscape. Its main function is to provide an elevated viewpoint for discovering the natural beauty of the area. The design focuses on ensuring that everyone, regardless of their mobility, can access and enjoy the experience.

Design and Accessibility

Accessibility is a central theme in the design of the tower. It features a ramp with a maximum slope inclination of 8%, allowing individuals with disabilities to navigate the space with ease. This important element reflects a commitment to inclusivity, welcoming all users to share in the experience. At the top, the final platform presents a 360-degree view, allowing visitors to fully engage with the scenery.

Structural Elements

The integrity of the tower is achieved through the use of an inner casing made of thin lamellas that shape its box structure. This design choice not only supports the tower but also adds a visual element that enhances its appearance. The use of straightforward materials helps reinforce the tower's functionality while maintaining a modern look.

Safety Features

Safety is a priority, illustrated by the handrail designed with two handle heights at 0.7 and 0.9 meters. This feature accommodates a range of users, promoting security as they move along the ramp. The addition of metal mesh ensures that visitors can enjoy their surroundings without compromising safety. These design details highlight the importance of user experience and careful planning.

Sustainability and Illumination

Sustainability is integrated into the design through features like solar-powered smart regenerative lighting. This approach addresses environmental concerns while providing illumination for the structure. Composite wood boards with waterproofing and anti-slip surfaces are used throughout, ensuring safety in various weather conditions. This attention to detail emphasizes a careful balance between functionality and ecological mindfulness.

The observation tower culminates in a platform that invites visitors to pause and appreciate the landscape, enhancing their connection to the environment around Site A.

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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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