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Corten Steel Observation Tower Embracing Nature Through Spiral Design and Accessible Features

Author:
Alexander Rekhlitskiy
Corten Steel Observation Tower Embracing Nature Through Spiral Design and Accessible Features

Project in-detail

A spiral tower crafted from Corten steel rises gracefully within the North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve, allowing visitors to engage with the landscape and observe rare wildlife from accessible vantage points.
5 key facts about this project
01
The tower’s spiral design allows for a gradual ascent, enhancing the user experience through varied viewpoints.
02
Corten steel was selected for its natural weathering properties, enabling the structure to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
03
An inclusive ramp provides accessibility to all visitors, ensuring that everyone can engage with the environment.
04
Strategically placed glass panels offer 360-degree views while maintaining transparency and minimal visual obstruction.
05
The project emphasizes ecological stewardship, preserving existing vegetation and incorporating native plantings around the site.
The Kurgi Spiral Tower is an architectural project located in the North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve, designed to enhance the visitor experience while promoting the appreciation of local wildlife. This tower not only serves as a functional observation point but also embodies a thoughtful integration of architecture with nature, inviting a diverse audience to engage with their surroundings in a meaningful way.

At its core, the Kurgi Spiral Tower represents a combination of innovative design and environmental awareness. The structure's primary function is to provide visitors with an elevated viewpoint to observe rare horse species that inhabit the reserve. Moreover, it acts as a gateway to the biosphere, encouraging exploration and education about the ecosystem. The design emphasizes inclusivity, equipped with a gentle, accessible ramp that allows individuals of varying mobility to enjoy all levels of the tower. This consideration ensures that the experience offered is not limited by physical abilities, fostering a sense of community and shared connection to the natural habitat.

The architectural elements of the Kurgi Spiral Tower are particularly noteworthy. The spiral form of the tower guides visitors upwards through a series of circular observation platforms that extend outward, creating a seamless flow that invites exploration. The gradual ascent not only enhances the visual experience but also mirrors the natural contours of the landscape, establishing a dialogue between the built environment and its surroundings. Visitors can explore the tower at their own pace, pausing at various levels to take in the panoramic views, which juxtapose the organic forms of the reserve against the sleek, modern design of the tower.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the project, as the choice of materials reflects both aesthetic and practical concerns. The primary use of reinforced concrete provides durability and strength to the structure, ensuring longevity within the changing environmental conditions. Corten steel, known for its weathered appearance, is employed to blend harmoniously with the earthy tones of the landscape. This material not only contributes to the visual appeal of the architectural design but also allows the tower to age naturally, further integrating it into the environment. In addition, glass panels are strategically placed to provide unobstructed views, promoting transparency and an unobtrusive presence that complements the biosphere.

The design is enhanced by thoughtful details aimed at improving the user experience. The incorporation of wooden railings offers a tactile and warm interaction with the space, reinforcing connections to nature. Observation platforms are designed to facilitate uninterrupted sightlines, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of the wildlife and landscape while maintaining a focus on safety and comfort. The consideration of these details ultimately creates a welcoming atmosphere, where visitors can fully immerse themselves in the experience.

A unique design approach evident in the Kurgi Spiral Tower is its emphasis on environmental integration. The structure is not merely placed within the landscape but is conceived as an extension of it. By thoughtfully positioning the tower and selecting materials that resonate with the natural setting, the architecture enhances the surrounding environment rather than dominating it. This approach encourages visitors to feel a stronger bond with nature, transforming the act of observation into a more profound experience.

The Kurgi Spiral Tower stands as an example of how architecture can effectively merge functionality with environmental stewardship. It invites visitors to explore and appreciate the nuances of the North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve while facilitating accessible interactions with nature. The design thoughtfully engages with its context, creating a space that promotes education, conservation, and community engagement.

For those interested in a deeper exploration of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, I encourage you to review the comprehensive presentation of the Kurgi Spiral Tower. The insights gained from the project details will undoubtedly enrich your understanding of contemporary architectural practices and their potential to foster connections between people and the natural world.
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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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