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Elevated Observation Tower Crafted from Timber and Glass Integrating Periscope Technology in a Natural Landscape

Authors:
Melissa Collaro, Pankaj Bhudia, Antoinne Edghill, Errol Houston
Elevated Observation Tower Crafted from Timber and Glass Integrating Periscope Technology in a Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Crafted from timber and glass, the observation tower incorporates periscope technology to provide inclusive, elevated views of Kemeri National Park's diverse landscapes, enhancing visitor engagement with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with cross-laminated timber, promoting sustainability and reducing carbon footprint.
02
Incorporates innovative periscope technology for enhanced viewing experiences without visual obstructions.
03
Ramped pathways designed for universal access, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors.
04
Features charred wooden shingles for durability and aesthetic integration with the natural environment.
05
Elevated structure optimally positioned to capture panoramic views of diverse ecosystems in the park.

## Project Overview
Located within Kemeri National Park in Latvia, the Vantage Point design initiative focuses on creating an accessible observation tower that enhances the visitor experience across diverse landscapes, including wetlands, forests, and open plains. This project aims to provide inclusive observational opportunities for individuals of all physical abilities, fostering a deeper connection between visitors and their natural surroundings.

## Spatial Strategy and Engagement
The foundational concept is rooted in periscope technology, allowing for elevated viewpoints while facilitating varied experiences of the landscape. Ramped access pathways from three distinct directions converge at a central hub, enabling 360-degree vistas. This design not only addresses physical accessibility but also promotes interaction among visitors through shared experiences. The project emphasizes three primary landscapes: water, forest, and parkland, represented through three distinct periscopes, which enrich the range of visual perspectives available.

## Materiality and Construction
The Vantage Point structure features a careful selection of materials that align with functional requirements and aesthetic values. Timber serves as the primary material for the structure and boardwalks, ensuring environmental compatibility. Glass elements in the periscopes provide unobstructed views, enhancing the visitor's connection to the landscape. Metal supports ensure structural integrity, while reflective surfaces create focused observation points. Construction techniques are thoughtfully selected to accommodate the soft, wet ground conditions, thereby preserving the site's delicate ecosystems. This strategic foundation underscores a commitment to ecological sustainability throughout the design.

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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
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