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Elevated Observation Platform Crafted from Sustainable Timber with Modular Design Elements

Authors:
Shuyi Huang, Guanjie Yao, Yuan Tian, Xiaoya Zhang
Elevated Observation Platform Crafted from Sustainable Timber with Modular Design Elements

Project in-detail

Crafted from modular timber and featuring a spiral observation deck, the structure enhances accessibility and engagement with the landscape while serving as a vital educational resource in Kemeri National Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed predominantly from modular cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
02
The bent A-frame design enhances stability while providing unobstructed views of the bog.
03
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and a unique aesthetic.
04
Designed with accessible pathways, ensuring equal access for all visitors.
05
Features an open observation deck that promotes immersive nature experiences while minimizing ecological impact.
The Y Tower is an architectural design project situated in the context of Kemeri National Park, Latvia. This project successfully merges accessibility with environmental sensitivity, responding to the needs of visitors while promoting the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The Y Tower functions as a multi-level observation structure that enhances the experience of the unique ecosystem of The Great Kemeri Bog. Its design is carefully articulated to facilitate access for all users, including individuals with mobility challenges.

Material choices include wood for the primary framework and flooring, integrating warmth and sustainability into the structure. Steel supports and glass elements are incorporated strategically to provide safety and unobstructed views for users. The design emphasizes modular construction, allowing for flexible adaptation to the site’s specific environmental conditions without compromising the ecological integrity of the area.

Unique Design Approaches
The Y Tower distinguishes itself through its emphasis on inclusivity and interaction with the natural environment. The multilevel observation tower features a spiral form that promotes movement and provides varying perspectives of the surrounding landscape. Each level descends gracefully, ensuring accessible paths for wheelchair users and enabling a smooth flow of traffic throughout the tower.

Additionally, the design of the connecting footbridge adheres to the same principles as the tower, reinforcing visual and spatial coherence. This structure is integral to the overall project, facilitating uninterrupted access to different viewpoints over the bog and the surrounding forest. The heightened vantage points encourage visitors to engage with the biodiversity of Kemeri National Park actively.

Functionality and User Experience
The Y Tower serves multiple functions that extend beyond mere observation. It facilitates educational experiences about the local ecosystem through its design, which is intended to minimize environmental disruption. The elevated pathways and platforms create opportunities for interpretive signage, deepening visitors' understanding of the region's ecological significance.

Moreover, the consideration of materials and construction techniques reinforces the project’s commitment to sustainability. The light-footprint construction minimizes disturbances to existing habitats, promoting a harmonious coexistence with the natural landscape.

To explore more details about the Y Tower, including architectural plans, sections, and design elements, interested readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the provided project presentation. This exploration will reveal richer insights into the architectural ideas and innovative approaches that define this distinctive project.
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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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