Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Gradual Ascent Through Wooden Surfaces Supported by Hexagonal Mesh

Authors:
Vittorio Bonelli, Maria cristina Bartolucci
Gradual Ascent Through Wooden Surfaces Supported by Hexagonal Mesh

Project in-detail

Rising 9 meters, a carefully crafted ramp leads visitors through wooden surfaces and hexagonal mesh structures, offering unobstructed views of the surrounding ecology while facilitating wildlife observation.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure features a ramp with a 5% gradient for full accessibility.
02
Two parallelepiped forms create a unique interaction within the landscape.
03
Strategic viewpoints are integrated along the ramp for optimal wildlife observation.
04
The boardwalk is designed to adapt to varying terrain throughout the reserve.
05
A double hexagonal wire mesh enhances stability and visibility without obstruction.

The Flamingo Observation Tower is a thoughtfully designed structure situated in a landscape of ecological importance. It aims to provide visitors with an elevated platform for wildlife observation while fostering a meaningful connection to nature. The design focuses on accessibility and visual harmony, creating an inviting space for exploration that does not detract from the surrounding environment.

Structural Concept

The tower's design includes two parallelepiped forms that interact with each other, supported by a lattice of pillars. A central division allows the ground path to cross through, maintaining a natural flow in the landscape. This configuration ensures that the structure is stable while remaining unobtrusive in its setting.

Ramp Design

A key feature of the observation tower is the ramp, which rises to a height of 9 meters. Designed with a gentle 5% gradient, it offers ease of movement for all visitors, including those with disabilities. The ramp includes specific viewpoints along the way, inviting guests to pause and take in the sights of the natural surroundings, encouraging a deeper engagement with the environment.

Boardwalk Integration

The boardwalk leading to the tower is adaptable to the varied terrain of the nature reserve. Its modular design enables a smooth transition from the ground to the elevated observation area, enhancing the overall visitor experience. As guests move along the boardwalk, they are encouraged to interact with their environment and appreciate its nuances.

Materials and Application

Materials were chosen to complement the tower's functional and visual qualities. Wooden plates and slats give warmth and texture to the structure, while a steel framework provides necessary support. A double hexagonal wire mesh adds stability and allows for clear views of the landscape, reinforcing the bond between the tower and its natural context.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy