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Perforated Metal Frames in a California Observation Tower Enhancing Accessibility and Wildlife Viewing

Authors:
Dasha Kurylenko, Roman Kurylenko
Perforated Metal Frames in a California Observation Tower Enhancing Accessibility and Wildlife Viewing

Project in-detail

With its unique perforated metal framework that echoes the surrounding landscape, this California observation tower creates an inviting platform for immersive wildlife viewing while promoting sustainability and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The observation tower incorporates a unique perforated metal facade that enhances transparency and lightness.
02
Solar panels are integrated into the design, promoting renewable energy use for visitor amenities.
03
Multiple observation decks provide diverse viewpoints, encouraging extended engagement with the natural environment.
04
The minimalist design minimizes visual impact, allowing it to harmonize with the surrounding landscape.
05
Accessibility features are prioritized, facilitating movement among different levels for all visitors.
The Ethereal Tower is an architectural project that embodies a thoughtful relationship between human activity and the natural environment. Designed as a multifunctional observation tower, its core purpose is to facilitate an experiential connection for visitors with the surrounding landscape. The design emphasizes simplicity, transparency, and inclusivity while seamlessly fitting into the environment of open grassy fields, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

This project represents a modern approach to observation architecture, encouraging exploration and interaction. By providing multiple levels of observation, the tower caters to various user needs, allowing visitors to engage with the natural world from different perspectives. The design encourages wildlife observation and fosters a deeper appreciation for the local ecosystem, showcasing the importance of educational and recreational opportunities within nature.

The architectural design of the Ethereal Tower features an efficient geometric layout, prioritizing structural clarity and user-friendly access. With a height of 11 meters and a length of 50 meters, the tower’s verticality is balanced by its minimalist framework, reducing visual clutter and honoring the landscape's natural profile. Visible components include a series of three distinct observation platforms, each equipped to provide expansive views of the surrounding fields, inviting users to linger and absorb the scenery.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the project’s functionality and aesthetics. The use of perforated metal not only creates visual interest but also allows natural light to filter through, enhancing the visitor experience while maintaining structural integrity. This material choice is complemented by the painted metal frame, which serves as a recognizable visual element against the green backdrop. The integration of durable materials ensures the architecture's longevity while requiring minimal maintenance, underlining a commitment to sustainability.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the Ethereal Tower. The incorporation of solar panels speaks to the project's ecological intentions, promoting renewable energy use and allowing for a self-sustaining ecosystem within the structure. The design thoughtfully blends aesthetics with practicality, as the careful arrangement of accessible staircases encourages movement throughout the space, making the varying levels of the tower inviting and easily navigable.

The architectural details merit attention, particularly the sheltered observation decks that allow users to enjoy their surroundings while providing protection against the elements. This feature enhances the tower’s usability and extends the time visitors can comfortably spend engaging with nature. Additionally, the perforations in the metal shell serve a dual purpose: they offer an artistic element while facilitating ventilation and light entry, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow throughout different times of the day.

In summary, the Ethereal Tower embodies a contemporary architectural vision focused on interaction and relationship building with the environment. Its design prioritizes sustainability and user experience, serving both practical and educational functions. For those interested in a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas that shaped this project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs will provide invaluable insight into the thoughtful considerations that define the Ethereal Tower. Delve into the project presentation for a comprehensive look at all the elements and intricacies that contribute to this distinctive architectural design.
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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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