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Mirrored Pyramids Elevating Public Engagement in a Natural Landscape

Author:
Kyle Mahoney
Mirrored Pyramids Elevating Public Engagement in a Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Utilizing mirrored glass to reflect its natural surroundings, the observatory integrates elevated pyramid forms that enhance visitor engagement with the landscape while fostering accessibility for all.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes mirrored glass to create visual harmony with the surrounding landscape.
02
Features elevated, warped pyramid forms to enhance panoramic viewing experiences.
03
Incorporates slender steel columns to maintain a minimal visual footprint.
04
Integrates gentle pathways for seamless visitor access throughout the natural terrain.
05
Promotes biodiversity observation through reflective architectural elements.

Periscopic Dell presents a thoughtfully designed observatory located in Kemeri National Park, Latvia. This architectural project serves as a public observatory, allowing visitors to engage with the surrounding landscape from elevated vantage points. The structure integrates advanced design approaches with an emphasis on environmental sensitivity and accessibility.

The architectural design utilizes a series of warped pyramid forms constructed from materials that blend seamlessly with the natural environment. Core to its function, the observatory creates spaces for visitors to grasp the beauty of the park, encouraging both observation and interaction. The structure is elevated, featuring suspended elements that invite exploration of nature while maintaining a minimal footprint on the land.

Unique Structural Approach

One of the distinct features of the Periscopic Dell is its innovative use of mirrored glass in combination with slender steel columns. This design not only supports the structure but also enhances the visibility of the natural surroundings through reflection, articulating a visual connection between structure and landscape. The use of these materials contributes to a modern aesthetic while ensuring that the observatory remains unobtrusive.

Additionally, the design incorporates gentle pathways that invite visitors to navigate through the landscape rather than adhering to conventional rigid routes. This form of access promotes a more natural interaction with the park's ecosystem while accommodating diverse mobility levels among visitors.

Interactive and Adaptive Spaces

The layout of the observatory includes various interactive spaces designed to accommodate a range of activities. Users can engage in peaceful observation, scientific inquiry, or simply take a moment to relax within the grassy earthworks that complement the architectural elements. These adaptable spaces foster a deep connection with the ecological context of the observatory, allowing for a versatile visitor experience.

The Periscopic Dell stands as an exemplary model of how architecture can harmonize with the natural environment while enhancing user engagement. For detailed insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs, interested readers are encouraged to explore the overall presentation of the project.

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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.

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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

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