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Observation Tower Featuring Treated Pine and Cyclopean Concrete Emphasizing Ecological Interaction

Authors:
Nuno Costa, Luís Guedes de Carvalho, Francisco Guedes de Carvalho, Maura Silva
Observation Tower Featuring Treated Pine and Cyclopean Concrete Emphasizing Ecological Interaction

Project in-detail

Rising gracefully beside Pape’s Lake, this observation tower integrates treated pine poles and a cyclopean concrete foundation to create a unique spiral ascent that fosters an immersive connection with the surrounding ecosystem.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The tower features an innovative dual foundation system that accommodates soil movement while ensuring structural stability.
02
Constructed predominantly with treated pine poles, the design enhances the natural aesthetics of the surrounding landscape.
03
Visitors experience a unique incremental ascent, allowing for gradual engagement with the diverse ecosystems surrounding Pape’s Lake.
04
The use of cyclopean concrete serves not only for strength but also minimizes visual impact on the natural environment.
05
Camouflage techniques are intentionally integrated into the design, allowing the structure to blend seamlessly with its ecotonal setting.
Pape’s Spiral Tower is an architectural project that seamlessly bridges the realm of human creativity and the nuances of the natural environment. Situated beside Pape’s Lake, this structure serves not only as an observation tower but also as a symbol of ecological interaction and appreciation. The design reflects a thoughtful consideration of both aesthetics and function, inviting visitors to engage with the rich biodiversity of the surrounding landscape.

At its core, Pape’s Spiral Tower represents a dialogue between architecture and ecology. The concept is grounded in the desire to create a harmonious and immersive experience that encourages exploration and introspection. Visitors are drawn into a journey as they ascend the 70 spiral steps that lead them to various viewpoints over the lake and its adjacent ecosystems. This upward movement is intentional, allowing individuals to appreciate the gradual unveiling of the environment, engaging them in an experiential relationship with nature.

The tower is constructed primarily from treated pine wood, which forms its principal structural elements. This choice of material not only aligns with the project's ecological focus but also offers a natural appearance that blends with the landscape. Each of the 40 wooden poles contributes to the overall stability of the design while respecting the site’s aesthetic characteristics. The use of cyclopean concrete for the foundation provides a robust and stable base, ensuring that the structure is well-equipped to withstand natural forces.

The architectural design incorporates a unique approach to its foundational system, which is executed with meticulous attention to potential soil behavior. By employing a dual foundation strategy that combines inner nucleuses with outer rings, the design effectively distributes structural loads and accommodates possible soil movements. This adaptability enhances the tower’s resilience while allowing it to maintain its integrity over time.

One of the notable aspects of Pape’s Spiral Tower is its incremental ascent. This design approach allows visitors to gradually attune to their surroundings as they ascend through the structure. Each step is designed not only for practicality and safety but also for facilitating a deeper interaction with the landscape. The visitor experience is enriched as they encounter varied perspectives and features of the environment, promoting a connection that extends beyond the confines of a traditional viewing platform.

The incorporation of camouflage elements is another innovative feature of the design. The wooden poles are positioned and engineered to blend seamlessly into the surrounding ecosystem, minimizing visual disruption and fostering an environment that is respectful of local wildlife. This thoughtful consideration emphasizes the project’s commitment to ecological sensitivity, ensuring that the structure coexists with its surroundings rather than imposing upon them.

Pape’s Spiral Tower also emphasizes educational potential. By offering a platform for observation of wildlife and natural phenomena, the design serves as an instrument for increasing awareness about the importance of preserving ecological systems. The narrative woven into the tower’s architecture encourages visitors to reflect upon their relationship with nature and the impact of human activities on such ecosystems.

In summary, Pape’s Spiral Tower epitomizes the intersection of architecture and ecology, providing a meaningful space for exploration and observation. Through its intentional design and careful material selection, the project highlights essential architectural ideas centered on sustainability and aesthetic harmony. Visitors seeking to deepen their understanding of this architectural endeavor are invited to explore the project presentation further, where architectural plans, architectural sections, and detailed architectural designs offer additional insights into the thoughtful considerations that shaped Pape’s Spiral Tower.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

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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