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Elevated Perspectives with Recycled Steel and Low Emissivity Glass

Authors:
Meaghan Dickson, Rory Peckham, Krisha Thakkar
Elevated Perspectives with Recycled Steel and Low Emissivity Glass
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Constructed with recycled steel and low emissivity glass, this observation tower rises within the North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve, providing elevated views that enhance the visitor experience while promoting eco-tourism in an immersive natural setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with recycled steel, promoting sustainability.
02
Features low emissivity glass to enhance energy efficiency.
03
Includes multiple strategically placed balconies for varied viewpoints.
04
Integrates a vertical design that reflects the surrounding forest.
05
Located within a protected biosphere, emphasizing environmental sensitivity.

The Corinthian Forest Observation Tower is located at Kurgi Farm in Latvia’s North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve. It serves as a space for eco-tourism, offering visitors an opportunity to connect with the surrounding forest. The design draws upon the natural landscape, creating a structure that resonates with the local environment while inviting reflection and exploration.

Architectural Concept
- The tower’s design mimics the essence of the forest. Robust columns rise vertically, resembling tree trunks and creating a strong presence in the landscape. This verticality is complemented by horizontal spaces that allow movement and interaction. Each level offers specific viewpoints that encourage visitors to engage with their surroundings. This relationship between the building and nature fosters a meaningful experience as people navigate through the different perspectives.

Spatial Dynamics
- Circulation within the tower is designed to feel natural. Visitors ascend through a fully enclosed path, which protects them from the elements while providing a clear route. Balconies at various heights offer outdoor access, enabling direct interaction with the natural surroundings. Each balcony frames selected views of the forest, guiding the experience and encouraging contemplation. This intentional layout enhances the relationship between the observer and the environment.

Materiality
- Sustainability plays a critical role in choosing materials for the tower. It features recycled steel for structural elements, low emissivity glass for windows and doors, metal composite panels for walls and the floor slab, and perforated metal sheets for flooring. These materials not only serve essential functions but also align with the design's aim to minimize environmental impact. The careful selection reflects a commitment to creating a structure that respects its ecological context.

Design Highlights
- The top level of the observation tower culminates in a wrap-around balcony. This area provides sweeping views of the forest and sky, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding them. The design encourages people to pause and take in their surroundings, marking the tower as a significant feature within the landscape. This connection to nature is central to the experience, leaving a lasting impression on those who visit.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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