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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
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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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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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