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Layered Pink Ropes Define Accessible Observatory Tower

Authors:
Ous Abou Ras, Reem Abdelaal, Yalda Safarali, Tina Siassi
Layered Pink Ropes Define Accessible Observatory Tower
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The observatory tower's layered pink ropes create a visually dynamic experience while facilitating seamless accessibility, serving as a unique vantage point for visitors to engage with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The observatory tower incorporates a modular ramp that combines a zig-zag and square design for improved access.
02
Layered pink ropes create variable density, enhancing tactile experiences as visitors move through the structure.
03
The circulation path transitions from clockwise to counter-clockwise, providing diverse landscape views.
04
Structural poles are camouflaged with the surrounding design elements to maintain a light visual appearance.
05
The observatory encourages active engagement with the natural environment while ensuring user comfort.

The observatory tower is set within a natural landscape that emphasizes accessibility and user interaction. The design concept features a modular ramp system that allows smooth movement for visitors. By combining a zig-zag ramp with a square ramp, the structure enables easy navigation while providing opportunities for varied views and experiences as visitors make their way through.

Design Integration

A key element of the observatory is the use of pink ropes, which serve both practical and aesthetic purposes. These ropes have a variable density, allowing visitors to experience a change as they approach the center of the tower. As individuals get closer, the ropes become denser, offering a different tactile experience. Moving toward the edges, the density decreases, allowing for a more open feel and a varied interaction with the space.

Circulation Dynamics

The circulation path is designed to start with a clockwise direction that later transitions into counter-clockwise movement. This shifting flow not only promotes accessibility but also presents diverse views of the surrounding area. The layout encourages visitors to engage with their environment actively as they travel through the observatory.

Structural Camouflage

Another notable aspect of the design is how the vertical elements are blended into the surrounding features. The poles that support the observatory are intentionally designed to match the ropes, reducing visual interruptions and giving a light appearance. This thoughtful integration helps create a balance between the structure and its surroundings, resulting in a clear connection between the built form and the natural landscape.

The arrangement of these elements encourages a close exploration, guiding visitors to interact with both the structure and the environment, reinforcing the ties between architecture and nature.

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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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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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