Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Helicoidal Path Featuring Natural Timber and Concrete Interaction for Scenic Engagement

Authors:
Santiago Barbieri, Andres Barbieri
Helicoidal Path Featuring Natural Timber and Concrete Interaction for Scenic Engagement

Project in-detail

A helicoidal path seamlessly integrates natural timber and concrete, guiding visitors through a series of observation points to engage with the scenic beauty of the Vidzeme biosphere.
5 key facts about this project
01
Helicoidal path enhances visitor engagement with the natural landscape.
02
Prefabricated concrete structure allows for rapid assembly on site.
03
Timber beams provide warmth and contrast to the concrete elements.
04
Multiple observation points offer diverse views of the biosphere.
05
Accessibility features include a lift for all visitors.

The Kurgi Observation Tower is located within the Vidzeme biosphere and serves as a space for visitors to connect with nature. It is designed to provide an engaging experience through a carefully crafted path that spirals upward. This concept draws inspiration from horse promenades, encouraging a natural flow as visitors move through the structure and observe the surrounding landscape.

Design Concept

The design focuses on creating a path that allows for exploration and appreciation of the scenery. The helicoidal path is more than just a way to get from one point to another; it invites people to immerse themselves in their surroundings. As individuals ascend, they encounter different viewpoints that enrich their connection to the environment.

Structural Elements

The primary structure is made of prefabricated concrete, which is both strong and efficient for construction. Timber beams serve as the secondary structure, offering a contrast to the concrete and adding warmth to the overall feel. Steel joints connect various elements, contributing to the stability and durability of the tower.

Material Choices

Observatory platforms are outlined with metal sheet railings that ensure safety while allowing clear views of the landscape. The flooring consists of wood planks, which enhance the tactile experience as visitors walk through the tower. Steel beams support the platform structure, allowing for open gathering spaces that invite visitors to pause and enjoy their surroundings.

User Experience

Accessibility is an essential aspect of the design, achieved through the inclusion of a lift to assist those with mobility challenges. The lighting is provided by LED tubes, offering sufficient brightness while respecting the natural atmosphere. A fireplace serves as a gathering point, creating a cozy environment for visitors to relax and enjoy the landscape.

The combination of structural integrity and thoughtful design fosters a space where visitors can engage with nature. The careful arrangement of paths and viewpoints ensures a satisfying experience as individuals navigate through the tower.

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