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Elevated Observation Tower Crafted from Recycled Barn Wood and Translucent Glass

Elevated Observation Tower Crafted from Recycled Barn Wood and Translucent Glass

Project in-detail

Constructed with recycled barn wood and translucent glass, the elevated observation tower offers panoramic views while serving as a multifunctional space for public gatherings and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed from recycled barn wood, promoting sustainability and local heritage.
02
Incorporates translucent glass to enhance natural light and visual connection with nature.
03
Features a 70-meter ADA-compliant ramp ensuring accessibility throughout the site.
04
Includes digitally printed sunflower imagery, reflecting regional flora and identity.
05
Utilizes plastic marine piles for foundation, offering durability and eco-friendly construction.
The Flying Red Barn, located in Eastern South Dakota, represents a contemporary interpretation of the traditional agricultural barn structure. This project serves multiple functions, including an observation tower, a public plaza, and a trail system, all designed to facilitate community engagement and outdoor activities. The architectural design pays homage to the region's agricultural heritage while introducing modern elements that enhance its usability and aesthetic appeal.

Design Representation and Functionality

The Flying Red Barn embodies the historical significance of the red barn, a staple in American farming culture, while integrating innovative architectural approaches. The structure features a series of overlapping forms that reinterpret the conventional barn silhouette, creating a sense of elevation that draws the eye upward. Its primary function is to offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape through various observation platforms. Additionally, the outdoor plaza acts as a gathering space for community events and promotes interaction among visitors.

The project emphasizes accessibility by incorporating a 70-meter ADA-compliant ramp that connects various levels of the structure, enabling a wide demographic of users to engage with the space comfortably. The design includes solar energy solutions, minimizing environmental impact while providing necessary lighting and energy for the site's functions.

Innovative Design Approaches

A notable feature of the Flying Red Barn is its use of recycled materials, specifically barn wood sourced from local structures. This choice highlights a commitment to sustainability and serves to maintain a connection with the area's agricultural roots. Translucent glass elements are strategically utilized within the design to enhance natural light and provide a visual connection with the environment.

The digital printing of sunflower imagery on interior film integrates local flora into the design, thereby reinforcing regional identity and creating an immersive visitor experience. The careful selection of materials extends to the surrounding landscape, where compressed earth and sunflower beds enhance biodiversity and contribute to the site's ecological health.

The project also employs advanced structural methods, incorporating plastic marine piles for groundwork, which offers a durable and environmentally friendly solution. Stone paving for walkways ensures longevity and ease of maintenance while creating clear, accessible pathways throughout the site.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural design, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and other aspects, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. Delving deeper into the architectural ideas behind the Flying Red Barn will provide valuable insights into its innovative structural elements and design philosophy.
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Enter an open architecture
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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