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Corten Steel Structure Featuring a Spiral Ramp in a Natural Landscape

Authors:
Remco Van Den Broek, Martijn Ravia
Corten Steel Structure Featuring a Spiral Ramp in a Natural Landscape
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Rising 35 meters, the observation tower's spiral ramp constructed from corten steel offers a progressive journey through the North Latvia Biosphere Reserve, culminating in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The tower incorporates a 35-meter spiral ramp for accessible ascent.
02
Corten steel is used for durability and to blend with the landscape.
03
The design prioritizes minimal material use to enhance sustainability.
04
An enclosed space with a central fireplace provides thermal comfort.
05
The location offers panoramic views of the North Latvia Biosphere Reserve.

The Kurgi Farm observation tower is set within the North Latvia Biosphere Reserve, designed as a peaceful retreat from the busy modern world. Its primary aim is to create a space where visitors can connect with nature. The overall concept is built around an accessible design that encourages engagement with the surrounding landscape, offering a unique experience for all.

Design Concept

The observation tower is marked by its continuous spiral ramp, which rises to a height of 35 meters. This ramp allows easy access for everyone, while also creating a journey that reveals stunning views of the biosphere. People can appreciate the changing scenery as they ascend, making the experience not just functional but also enriching.

Structure and Materials

The tower’s construction uses corten steel for its strength and weather resistance. This material blends well with the natural surroundings and ensures that the structure remains durable over time. The balustrades are made from locally preserved wood and rope, which support the tower's sustainable approach and create an inviting atmosphere around the space.

Interior Space

At the top of the tower, an enclosed area features a central fireplace for warmth. This space is designed to provide comfort while allowing guests to enjoy the views outside. The combination of an inviting interior with large openings connects visitors to the surrounding nature, making it feel like part of the landscape.

Site Integration

The observation tower is carefully positioned to show respect for the ecology of the biosphere. The design minimizes environmental impacts through careful selections in materials and a focus on low-tech solutions. This thoughtful approach encourages visitors to appreciate the unique beauty of the North Latvia Biosphere Reserve.

The observation tower stands tall and functional, with its spiral ramp providing an inviting path upwards, drawing visitors into the heart of nature.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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