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Elevated Red-Painted Poles Framing Nature in a Dedicated Observation Space

Author:
Marco Zavagno
Elevated Red-Painted Poles Framing Nature in a Dedicated Observation Space

Project in-detail

Elevated above the unique swamp landscape, the observation tower utilizes red-painted poles and modular design to create an accessible space for visitors to engage with the natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated observation points provide multiple perspectives of the swamp landscape.
02
Red-painted poles echo the natural hues of the local environment.
03
Modular design allows for adaptable visitor experiences at varying heights.
04
Shaded balconies enhance comfort while framing expansive views.
05
Accessible ramps ensure usability for all visitors, promoting inclusivity.

The Storkway Observation Tower is located in Kemeri National Park, a place known for its unique swamp landscapes. This structure is designed to enhance accessibility and encourage visitors to engage with the natural surroundings. The overall concept integrates with the landscape, allowing for exploration and a deeper understanding of the ecological value of the park.

Design Integration

The observation tower sits between the entrance and exit of an existing short boardwalk, allowing for straightforward access. Its organic design reflects the natural environment, establishing a connection between the structure and the park's features. The use of modular design enables variations in height and layout, providing diverse experiences for all visitors.

Visitor Engagement

The elevated boardwalk forms a pathway that encourages exploration. This part of the design resembles a bird's nest, offering a distinct perspective of the surrounding area. Ramps are included with an 8% incline, making the structure accessible and user-friendly. Landings along the way offer spots for rest and social interaction, enhancing the experience for visitors of all abilities.

Material Use

Materials for the project include a main pole frame of 160mm and a stilt system made of red-painted poles, also 160mm in diameter. The design incorporates wooden elements like a 50mm border and 24mm boards, along with a 120mm tie-beam wood pole. Safety is addressed with continuous handrails supported by metal bars and a wooden balustrade that varies in section, blending with the environment.

The shaded balcony offers views in four directions and allows visitors to connect with their surroundings. Expansive vistas are framed through gaps in the wooden cladding, creating an inviting space to reflect on the beauty of the landscape.

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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

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