Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Helical Structure Embracing Nature’s Views with Coastal Integration

Author:
Kim Bos
Helical Structure Embracing Nature’s Views with Coastal Integration

Project in-detail

A helical structure rises above the coastal landscape, offering panoramic views while integrating educational spaces that foster a deeper connection to the surrounding biosphere.
5 key facts about this project
01
Helical design mirrors natural forms found in the surrounding landscape.
02
Multiple viewing platforms provide diverse perspectives of the biosphere.
03
Constructed to enhance ecological awareness and conservation efforts.
04
Incorporates local environmental features, including raised bogs and meadows.
05
Pathways guide visitors through a journey of ascension and exploration.

The Kurgi Tower is located in the North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve and functions as both an observation point and an educational space for visitors. Designed to reflect the unique qualities of the surrounding environment shaped by the last ice age, the tower seeks to blend with the landscape. Its design emphasizes the natural forms of local plants, aiming to enhance visitors' understanding and appreciation of the diverse ecosystems present in this area.

Design Concept

The structure of the Kurgi Tower is characterized by a helix shape. This design draws inspiration from the curves found in nature, creating a visually appealing form that invites exploration. As individuals navigate upward, the twisting path provides a sense of movement and discovery. The architecture directly engages with the surrounding environment, making visitors feel connected to the landscape.

Visitor Experience

Throughout the ascent, visitors encounter a series of viewing platforms at various heights. These platforms offer different perspectives of the landscape, encouraging guests to pause and take in the views. Each area is designed to invite contemplation, letting people connect with the nature around them. The resting spaces along the way enhance the overall experience, allowing for moments of reflection amidst the journey.

Ecological Integration

The Kurgi Tower's design is rooted in ecological awareness and conservation. Situated among rolling plains, sandy beaches, and coastal meadows, it acknowledges the importance of the local ecosystem, which includes raised bogs and habitats for various wildlife. This approach deepens visitors' relationship with the environment, fostering a greater understanding of the area’s biodiversity.

The top observation deck provides a panoramic view that showcases the landscape and the Kurgi Farm. From this vantage point, the distinction between built space and natural surroundings becomes less defined, highlighting the connections within this rich ecological system.

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