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Helical Form of Concrete and Metal Embracing Natural Surroundings in a Biosphere Reserve

Authors:
Rittipong Tiandum, Sasithorn Tiandum
Helical Form of Concrete and Metal Embracing Natural Surroundings in a Biosphere Reserve

Project in-detail

The helical structure, inspired by the form of a pine tree, rises within the North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve, offering panoramic views while seamlessly integrating visitor observation spaces with the surrounding natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Helical structure mimics the form of a pine tree.
02
Designed for optimal panoramic views of the biosphere reserve.
03
Integrates accessibility features for all visitors.
04
Curved seating areas enhance visitor comfort and engagement.
05
Double spiral staircase facilitates efficient movement between levels.

The Kurgi Observation Tower is located in the North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve, along the border between Latvia and Estonia. This tower serves to enhance the visitor experience while encouraging a deeper connection with the natural environment and the region's equestrian culture. Its design takes inspiration from the shape of a pine tree, featuring a helix structure that blends with the surrounding landscape. The focus is on providing expansive views of the biosphere while maintaining a close relationship with nature.

Initial Floor Functionality

On the first floor, practical elements take center stage. This level includes facilities for visitor briefings, storage, and toilets, along with areas for observing horse training. It serves as an essential starting point, guiding visitors in understanding the farm's activities and the region's unique equestrian heritage.

Engaging Observation Levels

The second floor enhances visitor engagement with the local farm activities, allowing for direct observation and interaction. As guests move to the third floor, they reach the height of the surrounding tree line. This elevation offers beautiful views for those who come to enjoy the quiet moments of sunrise and sunset, highlighting the connection between the structure and its natural setting.

Panoramic Experiences

Ascending to the fourth floor, visitors are rewarded with views that extend beyond the nearby trees. Here, they can appreciate distant landmarks, including Tündre Lake and Holdre loss. The fifth floor features a glass-enclosed lounge that allows for unobstructed panoramic views while also providing a space for guests to purchase souvenirs from the farm.

Accessibility and Design Integration

The design strongly considers accessibility, incorporating ramps and elevators to ensure that everyone can enjoy the space. A double spiral staircase facilitates smooth movement between levels, adding to the overall experience. Each detail, from seating arrangements to viewing platforms, is thoughtfully included to encourage a connection with the environment and enhance visitors' enjoyment of the landscape.

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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

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