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Faceted Watchtower of Steel and Timber Offering 360-Degree Views

Author:
Felix Raspall
Faceted Watchtower of Steel and Timber Offering 360-Degree Views
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The watchtower, with its faceted form and triangular steel structure, offers panoramic views through a porous timber skin, serving as both an observation point and a unique architectural feature within the landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Faceted design oriented to cardinal points enhances unique viewing experiences.
02
Triangular steel structure optimizes material efficiency and stability.
03
Porous timber skin balances transparency and privacy for visitors.
04
Enclosable platforms adapt to various seasonal functions.
05
Operable glass panels promote airflow and user comfort.

Vidzeme Vista is a contemporary watchtower located at Kurgi Farm. It serves as both an observation point and a landmark in the landscape. The design features a faceted form with four platforms, each aligned with the cardinal directions. This arrangement allows visitors to experience panoramic views of the environment while creating an engaging space.

Structural Design

The watchtower uses a triangular steel structure that offers strength and efficiency in its construction. This framework helps maintain a lightweight appearance, which complements the tall, slender profile of the tower. Vertical movement within the building is supported by a combination of stairs and a central lift. This system ensures easy access to the various platforms on different levels.

Transparency and Privacy

A notable aspect of Vidzeme Vista is its skin, designed to provide 360-degree views from the upper levels. The facade is transparent when seen head-on but appears solid from the sides. This feature brings natural light into the interior while keeping visitors comfortable and private. The design effectively balances openness with seclusion, allowing users to enjoy their surroundings without feeling exposed.

Environmental Integration

Sustainably grown timber is used for the tower's skin, adding a warm texture to the predominantly steel structure. This material choice helps the building blend into the natural setting, creating a connection to the landscape. The enclosable platforms can serve various functions, adapting to different needs throughout the year. Large glass panels can be opened to allow fresh air inside, enhancing user comfort.

The interplay of light and shadow plays an important role in shaping the experience inside the tower. As sunlight filters through the materials, it creates a dynamic atmosphere that encourages visitors to explore and engage with the views beyond the structure.

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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.

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