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Observation Tower Featuring Curvilinear Forms and Charred Wooden Shingles with Cross-Laminated Timber Panels

Authors:
Esfa Yamaner, Gülizar Yilmaz, Rezzan Kalemci, Ümmügülsüm Temiz
Observation Tower Featuring Curvilinear Forms and Charred Wooden Shingles with Cross-Laminated Timber Panels

Project in-detail

This observation tower beautifully combines curvilinear forms with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, creating a harmonious blend of structural integrity and natural aesthetics while offering visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The observation tower's design draws inspiration from the rhythmic movement of the Ardennes horse, influencing its organic shape and flow.
02
The structure incorporates charred wooden shingles, providing a visually appealing and fire-resistant exterior that integrates with the natural environment.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are used extensively, enhancing both structural stability and sustainability by reducing the carbon footprint.
04
Innovative load distribution techniques are employed through a series of interconnected "blobs," allowing for a fluid architectural form while maintaining balance.
05
A panoramic elevator within the tower ensures accessibility for all visitors, promoting inclusivity alongside a unique viewing experience.
The Kurgi Observation Tower is an architectural project that embodies a thoughtful integration of form, function, and the surrounding landscape. This tower stands as a focal point for observation and engagement, providing visitors with a unique perspective on the natural environment. The design draws inspiration from the rhythmic movement of the Ardennes horse, translating this idea into a physical structure that flows with organic shapes reminiscent of the animal's gait.

At its core, the project aims to create a space where nature and architecture coexist harmoniously. The primary function of the Kurgi Observation Tower is to serve as a vantage point for visitors to enjoy panoramic views of the landscape, as well as a gathering space where individuals can connect with nature. The extensive use of reflective glass in the tower’s design enhances the visual experience, allowing for unobstructed views while maintaining a seamless dialogue with the environment.

The design incorporates multiple “blobs,” which are rounded and flowing forms that serve both structural and aesthetic purposes. These unique shapes are not merely decorative; they play a critical role in the load distribution of the tower. The architecture emphasizes balance, ensuring that the center of gravity is well-calibrated to support the overall structure. This careful attention to the dynamics of load and balance showcases the ingenuity of the design, offering stability while presenting a visually engaging form.

Accessibility is a key consideration in the project’s design, with the inclusion of a panoramic elevator facilitating access for all visitors. This commitment to inclusivity speaks to the project’s overarching goal of allowing a diverse audience to experience the beauty of the environment from various heights. In addition to this, the internal features of the tower, such as seating and walkways crafted from warm wood, encourage relaxation and engagement, inviting visitors to linger and truly absorb their surroundings.

The materials chosen for the Kurgi Observation Tower complement its artistic ambitions while ensuring durability and performance. Steel serves as the primary structural material, providing strength without compromising the delicate, flowing design. Wood elements contribute a sense of warmth and natural beauty, reinforcing the connection to the environment, while reflective glass creates transparency and visual continuity between the interior and exterior spaces.

What makes the Kurgi Observation Tower particularly noteworthy is its innovative approach to design. The project does not conform to the traditional forms typically associated with observation towers. Instead, it embraces a more sculptural and organic aesthetic, challenging the predefined notions of architectural design. By drawing from the natural world and encapsulating the rhythm inherent in it, this tower serves as a bridge between human experience and the environment.

The project also goes beyond mere observation; it emphasizes the healing and therapeutic aspects of nature. By fostering a space where both people and wildlife can coexist, the tower encourages visitors to engage in meaningful interactions. The connection to the walking patterns of the Ardennes horse further enhances these thematic elements, highlighting the intimacy between architecture and the natural flow of life.

For readers interested in delving deeper into the specifics of this architectural design, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and various design elements of the Kurgi Observation Tower will provide valuable insights. The thoughtful integration of form, materiality, and function in this project stands as a testament to modern architectural practices that seek to harmonize with the natural world. Visitors and enthusiasts are encouraged to explore the nuances of the project to fully appreciate its significance and the principles guiding its design.
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Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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