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Framing Nature With IPE And EPDM In A Multi-Terrace Observation Structure

Authors:
Lucia Giudice, Giulia Casolla, Chiara Lippi
Framing Nature With IPE And EPDM In A Multi-Terrace Observation Structure

Project in-detail

Constructed with IPE framing and EPDM roofing, the multi-terrace observation tower enhances engagement with the natural landscape, allowing visitors to connect with the environment through dedicated viewpoints for sunrise, sunset, and stargazing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Each terrace is specifically oriented to capture unique views of the sunrise, sunset, and night sky.
02
Visitors can observe local horses from a dedicated viewing terrace designed for quiet observation.
03
The tower incorporates an elevator for full accessibility across all levels.
04
Construction features IPE framing combined with a durable EPDM roofing system.
05
The top terrace offers options for overnight stays to enhance immersion in the natural environment.

The Kurgi Observation Tower is located at Kurgi Farm and designed to enhance the interaction between visitors and the surrounding landscape. It integrates a series of linked terraces that create spaces for observing significant views, especially the changing movement of the sun across the sky. The overall design aims to connect visitors with nature, providing opportunities for reflection and engagement with the environment.

Design Intent

The tower's design respects the site's natural topography and focuses on creating new viewpoints of the landscape. The concept emphasizes the relationship between the structure and the sun's path, ensuring that each terrace captures specific views at different times of day. This careful placement enhances the visitor experience, allowing for moments of connection with nature.

Terrace Configuration

Each level serves a unique purpose, adding depth to the visitor experience. The first floor features the Sunrise Terrace, inviting visitors to engage quietly with the morning light. The second level, known as the Horse Watching Terrace, allows for observing horses in their natural habitat. Moving upward, the Sunset Terrace on the third floor highlights the evening skies, providing a scenic backdrop for relaxation. At the top, the Star Terrace offers panoramic views and a chance for overnight stays, encouraging a deeper immersion in the natural setting.

Accessibility and Materiality

Accessibility is an important aspect of the design. An elevator connects all levels, ensuring that everyone can reach the different terraces. Regarding materials, the tower uses a variety of functional components to balance performance and appearance. The roof features an EPDM sealant layer and thermal insulation. An IPE steel framework supports the structure, while wooden panels complement the surrounding landscape. The staircase, made of IPE steel with wooden steps, facilitates movement and adds warmth to the interiors.

The thoughtful combination of materials and design elements allows the structure to serve as an observation point while engaging with its natural surroundings. Visitors are invited to reflect on the beauty of the landscape through the views from the tower. This connection is evident in the way the structure frames moments of the day, enhancing the experience of being in nature.

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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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