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Decayed Timber and Galvanized Steel Elevating Observations of the Great Plains

Author:
Garth Britzman
Decayed Timber and Galvanized Steel Elevating Observations of the Great Plains

Project in-detail

Utilizing repurposed decayed timber and galvanized steel, the platform elevates visitors to stunning vistas of the Great Plains, fostering a connection with the surrounding landscape while serving as a public observation space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes repurposed decayed timber sourced from local telephone lines.
02
Incorporates a unique cross-braced structural system for stability and visual lightness.
03
Features a tension cable system that maintains safety without obstructing views.
04
Designed to reflect the rhythm of nearby telephone poles, enhancing local context.
05
Elevates visitors 12 meters to provide unobstructed panoramic views of the landscape.
The project titled "Horizon" is an architectural installation located along Highway 14 in the Great Plains of South Dakota. This platform is designed to enhance the experience of viewing the expansive landscape, promoting interaction between visitors and the natural environment. "Horizon" serves as a functional observatory, providing a space for contemplation and engagement with the vastness of the surroundings.

Unique Design Approaches and Material Use
One of the defining characteristics of "Horizon" is its integration with the local landscape. The structure raises visitors to an elevation of 12 meters, offering panoramic views of the Great Plains. The design incorporates elements of the rural environment, mimicking the form and rhythm of adjacent telephone poles, which creates a familiar context for travelers and locals alike.

Material selection is pivotal to the project’s sustainability and aesthetic appeal. The primary materials employed include naturally decayed wood sourced from local telephone lines, which integrates seamlessly into the environment while minimizing environmental impact. The wood plank floor, salvaged from pine beetle-affected timber in the Black Hills, adds a historical narrative to the installation. Additional materials like galvanized steel for supports and stainless steel mesh for safety rails ensure structural integrity while maintaining a contemporary look.

Structural Design and Functionality
The structural configuration of "Horizon" consists of a series of cross-braced members that allow for both stability and visual lightness. The elevated platform extends 75 meters in length, with a gentle slope facilitating smooth access for visitors. This architectural form not only supports the physical load but also serves to guide the user’s experience, drawing their gaze toward the horizon.

The use of tension cables connects the platform to its structural supports, providing safety without obstructing the view. The architectural plan reinforces the focus on the horizon, encouraging exploration and appreciation of the landscape.

For further insights into "Horizon," including detailed architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation of this project. Understanding these elements provides a deeper context for the design’s relationship with its environment and its functional purpose as an observational platform in the Great Plains.
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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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