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Frosted Glass Observation Tower With Moving Silicon Boardwalk

Author:
Ariana Patterson
Frosted Glass Observation Tower With Moving Silicon Boardwalk

Project in-detail

The observation tower, designed with a rotating viewing platform and a boardwalk constructed from movable silicon, invites visitors to engage with their surroundings while providing a unique vantage point for nature observation.
5 key facts about this project
01
A movable silicon boardwalk allows for customized pathways.
02
The observation tower features a unique rotating viewing platform.
03
Frosted glass walls enhance natural light while maintaining privacy.
04
The design incorporates the concept of 'FLIP MODULATION' for user interaction.
05
Visitors can engage with the environment through an adaptive layout.

The design centers around the dynamic qualities of flamingos, emphasizing fluidity and balance. Located in a natural setting that encourages interaction with the surroundings, the structure serves both as an observation point and a place for community engagement. The concept revolves around movement, material use, and varied forms, inviting visitors to explore their environment in a deeper way.

Key Elements

The design features horizontal components that share the same geometric shape but differ in scale. This variation promotes flexibility, allowing for a range of pathways throughout the area. A key element is the boardwalk, created from movable silicon pieces, which enables visitors and staff to customize their routes. This adaptability fosters an environment that responds to the users' needs and preferences.

Observation Tower

An observation tower acts as the focal point of the design, offering a heightened perspective for users. At the top, visitors can engage with an additional viewing platform that rotates using a gear system. This not only enhances the viewing experience but also encourages social interaction among guests, as they can manipulate the structure together. The tower becomes a space for connection, encouraging conversation amidst the backdrop of nature.

Modulation Concept

The design incorporates a concept called 'FLIP MODULATION,' inspired by childhood games and puzzles. Users are invited to play with the arrangement of modular elements in the space, promoting a sense of discovery while keeping the overall structure intact. The relationship between movement and orientation is key, allowing visitors to experience the environment from different angles and perspectives.

Materials

Materials chosen for the project include bamboo for the flooring, titanium for structural support, and frosted glass for railings and walls. Bamboo offers sustainability and an appealing aesthetic, while titanium is lightweight and durable. The use of frosted glass allows filtered light to enter, contributing to a sense of openness. These choices reflect a thoughtful balance between functionality and design.

The frosted glass walls of the observation tower create a soft ambiance, allowing light to flow in and connecting the interior space with the outdoor environment, enhancing the experience for every visitor.

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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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