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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
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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.

## Project Overview

Located in Kemeri National Park, Latvia, the design features an observation tower intended to enhance the visitor experience while providing insight into the park’s diverse ecosystems and picturesque landscapes. The project focuses on integrating architectural elements with the natural environment, fostering a deeper connection between visitors and the park's ecological wealth.

### Spatial Organization and Design Elements

The project incorporates a series of elevated walkways that loop around the observation tower, offering varying heights and perspectives that encourage exploration and prolonged engagement with the surroundings. The primary structural support consists of steel arches, which provide stability while maintaining an open aesthetic. Integral to the design are Corten steel and galvanized metal grating, chosen for their durability and visual compatibility with the natural landscape. The Corten steel's weathered appearance harmonizes with the park's tones, while the grating allows for visibility beneath the structure, creating a sense of transparency.

### Accessibility and Environmental Sensitivity

The design prioritizes inclusivity through the incorporation of ramps to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges, ensuring equitable access to observation points. Elevated platforms minimize ground disturbance, preserving local habitats and contributing to the ecological integrity of the site. Additionally, the landscaping around the structure enhances sustainability by integrating native vegetation and promoting biodiversity. This design choice aims to educate visitors on environmental conservation while providing an immersive experience in the natural setting.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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