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Modular Observation Tower Crafted from Corrugated Polycarbonate and Steel Frame Enhancing Prairie Interaction

Author:
Sevag Kourounian
Modular Observation Tower Crafted from Corrugated Polycarbonate and Steel Frame Enhancing Prairie Interaction

Project in-detail

Crafted from corrugated polycarbonate and steel, the modular observation tower provides a dynamic vantage point for engaging with the expansive prairie landscape while emphasizing wildlife observation and environmental connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted primarily from corrugated polycarbonate, enhancing natural light diffusion and visibility.
02
Modular design allows for flexible spatial arrangement and adaptability to the environment.
03
East-facing elevation intentionally removes cladding for panoramic views of the prairie horizon.
04
Integrated viewfinders frame significant landscapes, enriching visitor engagement with the surroundings.
05
Steel frame construction ensures durability while minimizing maintenance needs.

Tower 14 in De Smet, South Dakota, serves as a reimagining of the prairie house typology, connecting historical context with contemporary architectural design. This project is characterized by a modular configuration that embraces its environment while inviting community interaction. The structure emphasizes both form and function, aiming to enhance visitor experiences through strategic design choices.

Unique Form and Engagement with Landscape

The design employs a series of stacked modules that provide varying perspectives of the surrounding landscape, including prominent features such as Silver Lake and Big Slough. This arrangement encourages exploratory movement throughout the building, facilitating a deeper engagement with nature. Each unit is angled specifically to capture critical views, allowing visitors to experience the heritage of the prairie while highlighting local wildlife and ecological diversity. Furthermore, the intentional removal of cladding on the east elevation underscores the project's commitment to maximizing natural light and visual connections to the horizon.

Materiality and Structural Integrity

The material selection reflects a balance between durability and sustainability. The primary structure is composed of a steel framing system, reinforcing the building's integrity while permitting large open spaces. Facades are clad with corrugated polycarbonate sheets, which serve to diffuse light and provide a seamless connection between interior and exterior spaces. Steel mesh components enhance the project's visual appeal and functionality. These materials collectively express a modern interpretation of prairie architecture, aligning with contemporary aesthetics while respecting traditional forms.

Innovative Design Approaches

Tower 14 demonstrates an innovative approach to architectural design by integrating local history with modern interpretations of space. The use of viewfinders throughout the structure emphasizes the significance of specific sights, fostering a connection to the cultural narrative of De Smet. The project's modular design not only creates a functional observation tower but also allows for adaptability in different environmental conditions. This responsive design principle is indicative of a broader trend in architecture, where structures are not only built for function but also crafted to enhance user experience and environmental interaction.

For comprehensive details, including architectural plans, sections, and design elements, readers are encouraged to explore the project's presentation for a thorough understanding of its concepts and architectural ideas.

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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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