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Panoramic Views Supported by H Steel Beams and Wire Mesh Integration

Authors:
Seung keun Lee, Yu-li Liao
Panoramic Views Supported by H Steel Beams and Wire Mesh Integration

Project in-detail

Constructed with H Steel Beams and enhanced by wire mesh panels, the observation tower at Kurgi Farm offers panoramic views while providing a multifunctional space for community engagement and ecotourism activities within the North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
Observation tower facilitates multiple viewing levels, enhancing visitor engagement with the landscape.
02
Pathways promote accessibility, allowing seamless movement between diverse activity zones.
03
H Steel Beams provide structural support while maintaining a delicate visual presence.
04
Wire mesh panels incorporate natural vegetation, enhancing the connection to the environment.
05
Dedicated play spaces are designed with safety features for children, encouraging outdoor exploration.

Kurgi Farm is located in the North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve and aims to encourage ecotourism in a rural area. The design focuses on creating spaces that allow visitors to engage with nature. By promoting accessibility and community interaction, the concept connects people with the local ecology and emphasizes outdoor activities.

Observation Tower

The observation tower is the main highlight of Kurgi Farm. It is designed to provide impressive views of the surrounding landscape. With several levels to explore, visitors can see the natural environment from different angles. This vertical structure invites people to interact with the beauty of the biosphere reserve, making it a key feature of the site.

Pathways and Connectivity

The layout includes a system of pathways and platforms that improve accessibility throughout Kurgi Farm. These pathways are designed to guide visitors from one area to another while encouraging exploration. They create a flow that allows users to engage with different spaces and enjoy various outdoor activities. This thoughtful arrangement enhances the overall visitor experience.

Materials and Structural Integrity

Materials play an important role in the design of Kurgi Farm. H Steel Beams provide essential support for the observation tower and other structures, ensuring durability and stability. Wire mesh panels are also used, allowing plants to grow and creating a natural connection between the built environment and the landscape. These material choices reflect a commitment to integrating architecture with nature.

Family-Oriented Spaces

Kurgi Farm places a strong emphasis on family-friendly activities. The design includes areas specifically for children and community gatherings. Playgrounds are safely designed with features like safety nets, allowing kids to explore freely. These interactive spaces are thoughtfully placed within the site layout, encouraging families to enjoy their time together while appreciating the natural surroundings.

The design incorporates quiet spots for contemplation, providing visitors opportunities to pause and take in the peaceful environment of Kurgi Farm.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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