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Corten Steel Spiral Structure Integrating Living Walls for Enhanced Ecological Observation

Author:
Luis Felipe Acosta
Corten Steel Spiral Structure Integrating Living Walls for Enhanced Ecological Observation

Project in-detail

The integration of Corten steel and living walls creates a dynamic spiral observation tower that provides an immersive platform for ecological engagement within a natural preserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
Corten steel cladding develops a protective patina that enhances durability and blends with the natural landscape.
02
A living wall constructed with native climbing plants promotes local biodiversity and improves air quality.
03
The spiral form of the tower mimics organic growth patterns, creating a seamless connection with the environment.
04
Multi-level viewing platforms provide diverse perspectives on the surrounding ecosystems.
05
Solar panels integrated into the structure support renewable energy use for the facility.

### Overview
Located within Parque Natural, a natural preserve encompassing approximately 1,868 hectares, an observation tower has been designed to enhance visitors’ engagement with the diverse ecosystems and wildlife found in the area. Established in 2005, the park serves as a habitat for various species and promotes ecological education. The tower's design aims to facilitate an immersive experience, providing unique vantage points for observations of the landscape while also serving an educational purpose.

### Spatial Strategy
The observation tower is organized over four levels, each designed to offer distinct experiences and viewpoints. The ground level functions as an introductory space, providing educational materials on the local flora and fauna to inform visitors before they ascend. The first and second floors prioritize accessibility while enabling views into different ecosystems, encouraging an appreciation of the park's biodiversity. As visitors move to the third floor, they encounter a contemplative area that allows for intimate observation of the natural surroundings. The fourth floor culminates the experience with unobstructed sightlines, presenting expansive views of the park.

The design features a spiraling form that not only facilitates vertical circulation but also reflects the organic contours of the environment. This spatial arrangement enhances both the functional aspects of the tower and its interaction with the landscape.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Materials selected for the tower's construction focus on sustainability and structural integrity. Reinforced concrete serves as the foundational support, while Corten steel provides a durable exterior that complements the rustic aesthetics of the surrounding area. Wood panels are utilized to enclose certain spaces, adding warmth and harmonizing with the project’s natural intent. Integrated solar panels contribute to energy efficiency, significantly reducing the tower's carbon footprint. Additionally, a mesh façade consisting of electropolished and plastified materials promotes safety while allowing for air circulation.

A notable characteristic of the tower is its façade, which is adorned with climbing plants that change color with the seasons, fostering a dynamic interaction with the environment. The structural design includes a central core supported by Corten steel reinforcements, while the outer spiral cantilevers from this core, providing strength and evoking natural forms.

### Accessibility and User Engagement
The tower incorporates various accessibility features, including ramps and stairs, accommodating a wide range of visitors. Well-placed lookout areas and educational panels enrich the user experience, serving dual functions as observation points and learning resources. This thoughtful design facilitates an engaging journey throughout the tower, emphasizing both functional observation and ecological awareness.

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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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