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Floating Observation Tower Featuring Reclaimed Wood and Dimensional Lumber

Authors:
James Bartlett, Alexandra Blanchet
Floating Observation Tower Featuring Reclaimed Wood and Dimensional Lumber

Project in-detail

The observation tower, constructed with reclaimed wood and dimensional lumber, hovers above the landscape to provide visitors with unobstructed views of the diverse ecology within Kemeri National Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates reused materials from the existing boardwalk, promoting sustainability.
02
The pathways are specifically designed to accommodate both wheelchair users and pedestrians.
03
The observation tower is inspired by the form of a snowshoe, enhancing its connection to nature.
04
Metal mesh at the base allows vegetation to grow, supporting local ecology.
05
The structure's height is intentionally lower than adjacent towers to maintain visual harmony.

The design for Kemeri National Park focuses on enhancing visitor accessibility while respecting the natural landscape. Located within a rich ecological setting, the project is built around the concept of connecting people with nature. "Tread Lightly: In the Footprints of Kemeri National Park" aims to create an enjoyable experience for visitors, promoting an understanding of the area’s unique environment.

Pathways and Circulation
The design includes a variety of pathways that facilitate movement throughout the park. A singular path serves as the main route for general circulation in the short loop, allowing enough width for wheelchair access and pedestrian use. Wider intersection paths enable two-way foot traffic, linking different sections of the boardwalk. Additionally, the passing curved path encourages visitors to stop and take in the surroundings, fostering a connection with nature.

Boardwalk and Observation Tower
Key features include the boardwalk and the observation tower, which draw inspiration from the shape of a snowshoe. This design allows the structure to appear light and playful as it hovers above the ground, reducing its impact on the environment. The observation tower is positioned to provide clear views of the surrounding bog landscape, inviting visitors to appreciate the beauty of their surroundings.

Material Integration
Materials used in the project are carefully chosen for both their usability and connection to nature. Dimensional lumber is used as the primary construction material, contrasting with reclaimed wood sourced from the existing boardwalk. This choice promotes sustainability and connects the new design with the area’s natural context. Glass is incorporated mainly on the observation deck, offering unobstructed views that immerse visitors in the scenery while ensuring strength and durability.

Structural Composition
The structural design reflects a strong relationship with the park’s ecosystem. Metal mesh is featured at the base of the pathways to support vegetation growth while maintaining stability. This approach emphasizes a commitment to environmental preservation. Features are designed to draw visitors closer to the landscape, enhancing the educational value of their experience while minimizing environmental effects.

The observation tower’s height and location complement the surrounding structures while encouraging engagement with the diverse ecology of Kemeri National Park. This design invites visitors to explore the area’s natural wonders, providing a meaningful outdoor experience.

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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
competition now

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