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Corten Steel Observation Tower Integrating Walkable Wetlands and Native Flora

Authors:
Patricia amelia Santoso, Mario hendry Muller, Rahajeng sekar Nihlah
Corten Steel Observation Tower Integrating Walkable Wetlands and Native Flora

Project in-detail

Elevated walkways constructed with corten steel provide unobstructed views of the wetlands, enhancing the visitor experience within the ecological landscape of Kemeri National Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with corten steel, the tower's weathered appearance blends seamlessly with the natural environment.
02
Elevated walkways facilitate unobstructed views of the surrounding wetlands and biodiversity.
03
The design incorporates accessible ramp systems, ensuring all visitors can engage with the landscape.
04
Perforated steel panels provide light filtration while maintaining visitor privacy at different heights.
05
Native flora is preserved and integrated into the surrounding landscape, enhancing local ecology.
The architectural project located in Kemeri National Park, Latvia, presents a well-considered design that serves as an observation tower. This structure enhances the visitor experience while integrating into the natural landscape. With a focus on ecological sensitivity, this project aims to facilitate exploration and observation of the diverse natural habitat within the park.

The observation tower is designed to provide various vantage points for visitors, allowing a unique interaction with the surrounding environment. By elevating the structure, the design acknowledges the park’s topography and facilitates panoramic views of the wetland ecosystem. The tower’s integration of elevated walkways allows users to traverse through different elevations, resulting in an immersive experience that highlights the beauty and complexity of the landscape.

Unique Design Approaches and Materiality

A distinctive feature of this project is its innovative use of corten steel. This material is selected for its weathered appearance, which helps the structure harmonize with the natural surroundings as it ages. Corten steel is robust and requires minimal maintenance, making it appropriate for outdoor applications. The incorporation of galvanized metal grating for the walkways facilitates both visibility of the ground below and a durable walking surface.

Additionally, the structure employs perforated steel panels. These elements allow light penetration while maintaining privacy for visitors, creating an inviting atmosphere. The project's design also considers environmental factors, as it features landscaping that aligns with the existing flora. This not only preserves local habitats but actively invites biodiversity to enhance the overall experience for park visitors.

Accessibility and Functionality

The design promotes accessibility through thoughtful ramp configurations allowing straightforward navigation for individuals with mobility challenges. The elevated pathways provide inclusive access, ensuring that the natural beauty of the park can be experienced by all visitors.

Moreover, the arrangement of the viewing platforms fosters flexible observation opportunities and accommodates different visitor needs, whether for casual observation or in-depth exploration of the park's ecological features.

For those who wish to gain deeper insights into this architectural project, a review of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas is encouraged. By examining these elements, visitors can appreciate the meticulous design approach and its successful integration into the natural environment.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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