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Fritted Glass and Metal Structure Integrating Native Landscaping for Community Engagement

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Fritted Glass and Metal Structure Integrating Native Landscaping for Community Engagement
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Fritted glass panels integrate with a durable metal framework to create a visually dynamic observation tower that promotes community engagement and education in South Dakota's natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Fritted glass facade reduces glare while allowing natural light to illuminate interior spaces.
02
The structure incorporates solar panels to enhance sustainability and reduce energy consumption.
03
Observation decks are designed at multiple heights for varied panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Native landscaping surrounds the tower, promoting ecological harmony and local biodiversity.
05
Interactive educational exhibits focus on regional history and natural ecosystems for visitor engagement.

### Project Overview

The Highway 14 Tower is proposed for the Silver Lake and Big Slough area in South Dakota, focused on enhancing visitor engagement and promoting local tourism. The design responds to the surrounding landscape, providing an interactive space for observation and contemplation. It aims to serve as a venue that integrates educational opportunities with immersion in the region's natural environment.

### Spatial Composition and Functionality

The tower features a height of 250 feet and incorporates multiple levels, each serving distinct purposes. An observation deck offers panoramic views, while a dedicated museum level showcases local history and cultural significance. Plazas designed for relaxation and interaction with nature are integrated throughout the structure. Multiple observation decks are strategically positioned to maximize visual access and enhance the user experience, with circulation paths that facilitate easy access via trams, stairs, and elevators.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The design utilizes a range of materials to enhance both aesthetic appeal and sustainability. The exterior skin and framework consist of metal, providing structural integrity while contributing to a modern look. Fritted glass allows natural light into the interior spaces while minimizing glare. The utilization of concrete ensures durability and stability at the base of the structure. Additionally, solar panels are incorporated into the design to promote eco-friendliness and offset operational costs. Landscape elements featuring native plants align the project with its environmental context, reinforcing a connection to the surrounding ecosystem.

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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.

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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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