Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Mast-Like Structures with Translucent Fabric and Locally-Sourced Timber Enhancing Coastal Observation

Authors:
Paul Schlachter, Christelle Coetzee
Mast-Like Structures with Translucent Fabric and Locally-Sourced Timber Enhancing Coastal Observation

Project in-detail

Elevated by mast-like forms and wrapped in translucent fabric, the design harmonizes with the coastal landscape while providing essential observation and communal spaces for visitors along the Baltic Sea.
5 key facts about this project
01
Mast-like structures mimic maritime elements while providing visual prominence.
02
Translucent fabric sheath enhances natural light and user experience within the space.
03
Flexible foundations allow for easy adaptation with minimal ecological disruption.
04
Integrated rainwater harvesting system promotes sustainability and resource efficiency.
05
Observation decks offer varying perspectives of the Baltic Sea and forest canopy.

The Forest Lamp project is a thoughtfully designed architectural intervention situated along the Baltic Sea coastline. This structure serves as both a visual landmark and a recreational facility, enhancing the user experience while fostering a connection with the surrounding forest environment. The project aims to integrate human interaction with nature, creating spaces that are multifunctional and culturally resonant.

The architecture embodies a design that combines utility with aesthetics. The towering forms mimic natural elements, acting as beacons that rise above the forest canopy. Their unique structure is intended to create a dialogue with both the landscape and the visitors, making it not only a place for observation but also a space for community engagement.

Ecological considerations are paramount in the design, as the project employs sustainable materials sourced locally. This approach minimizes environmental impact while ensuring that the construction extends the surrounding aesthetic. Key materials include locally sourced timber, steel reinforcement, translucent fabric, stone, and rubber tires, each selected for their performance and compatibility with the coastal setting.

Unique Design Approaches

A distinguishing feature of the Forest Lamp is its integration into the landscape. The towers, shaped to resemble masts of sailing vessels, offer not only functional spaces but also an artistic representation of navigation. This design approach highlights the intersection of heritage and modern architecture, evoking the regional maritime culture while serving contemporary needs.

The inclusion of viewing decks at varying heights allows users to experience different perspectives of the Baltic Sea and the forest. These decks serve as social spaces, encouraging interaction among visitors. Hammocks and benches are strategically placed to promote relaxation and informal gatherings, further enhancing the communal aspect of the site.

Another noteworthy characteristic is the use of flexible foundations, which enable the architecture to adapt without significant ecological disruption. This adaptability is supported by a water harvesting system installed along the structures, allowing for sustainable water management practices within the facility.

Site Integration and Community Value

The Forest Lamp is designed to be a focal point for community engagement, providing areas for events, camping, and cultural activities. The architectural configuration encourages social interaction, making it a hub for local residents and visitors alike. The project's relationship with its natural surroundings is reinforced by its ability to blend into the environment and remain unobtrusive.

The project is more than an architectural endeavor; it serves as a model for sustainable practices in coastal architecture. By focusing on local materials and ecological responsiveness, the Forest Lamp sets a standard for future designs in similar contexts.

For further insights, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs associated with this project to grasp its full scope and design philosophy. Investigating the architectural ideas that underpin the Forest Lamp will provide a deeper understanding of its significance within the architectural landscape.

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

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

`

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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
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