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Glass Canopy Overlooking Natural Vistas in Elevated Observation Platform

Author:
Wei Chen Ma
Glass Canopy Overlooking Natural Vistas in Elevated Observation Platform
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Elevated on pillars and surrounded by sweeping views, the platform incorporates glass elements to enhance visibility and interaction with the landscape while serving as an observation space for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated on pillars to minimize land disruption.
02
Incorporates areas for waiting and changing near the entrance.
03
Spirals downward to create layered walking experiences.
04
Allows users to engage with the space beneath the platform.
05
Features glass elements for unobstructed views of the landscape.

The design features a platform inspired by the shape of a spiral staircase, located in a scenic caldera. The main goal is to create a space that allows visitors to experience different views while connecting them to the surrounding natural area. The design focuses on changes in elevation, inviting exploration and interaction without any obstructions in sight.

Platform Structure

The platform's design focuses on the concept of a spiral staircase, shaping how people move through the space. As visitors ascend, they discover new viewpoints of the landscape at each step. This elevation enhances the visual experience and fosters interaction with the natural beauty of the site.

Connectivity Features

A footbridge provides access from the ski lift station to the platform. This bridge acts as an important entry point, with areas for visitors to wait and prepare for their time on the platform. There are also spaces for changing clothes, ensuring comfort. The stairs that lead up to the platform transition into a spiral descent to encourage walking and reflection.

Elevated Experience

The platform stands above the ground on pillars, which ensures minimal disruption to the natural terrain. This design allows users to occupy the space below the platform, maintaining a connection to the earth and the landscape. In winter, the visual impact is enhanced as sunlight reflects off both the snow and glass elements of the design, catching the eye from a distance.

Design Aesthetics

The structure evolves from a spiral staircase into a form that resembles a small mountain. This transformation invites everyone to find their own viewpoint, enriching the experience for all visitors. Transparent glass elements provide a clear connection to the surroundings, allowing visitors to engage directly with the landscape while enjoying the views from the platform.

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100,000€ Prize / 2025
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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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Competition organisers

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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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