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Perforated Steel Structure Framing 360-Degree Nature Views

Authors:
Marco Pallaoro, Richard lee Peragine, Simme Bruinsma
Perforated Steel Structure Framing 360-Degree Nature Views

Project in-detail

A five-storey cantilevered tower, clad in perforated steel and designed for optimal permeability, provides 360-degree views while offering a warm gathering space for visitors in a rural setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cantilevered design provides multiple viewing platforms.
02
Perforated steel façade enhances light filtration and visual connection.
03
Natural wood fireplace creates a warm gathering area.
04
Reinforced concrete foundations maintain soil permeability.
05
Covered stone pathway facilitates accessibility while preserving landscape.

The proposed observation tower is located in a rural area and is designed to connect with its natural surroundings while serving as a space for visitors to gather and enjoy wide views of the landscape. The design takes inspiration from traditional farmland architecture, focusing on transparency and a deep connection to nature.

Architectural Concept
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At its core, the design features perforated panels that offer 360-degree views of the landscape. This design choice allows light to filter through and creates a harmonious link between indoor and outdoor spaces. Visitors can experience the changing light and atmosphere as they move through the tower, feeling a sense of engagement with the natural environment that surrounds them.

Structural Integrity
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The tower rises five storeys, with each level slightly extending beyond the one below. This creates an interesting visual effect and emphasizes the vertical lines of the structure. Steel serves as the main support material, giving the tower strength and stability. Below, reinforced concrete deep foundations help protect the soil and allow for water to permeate, contributing to the ecological health of the area.

Upper Levels and User Experience
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The top level acts as a warm, enclosed space where visitors can gather. It features a natural wood fireplace that adds comfort and a relaxed atmosphere. A sliding-glass door connects this space to the outdoors, making it easy for people to enjoy the views. Each level is designed to provide open-air platforms, offering visitors different perspectives on the surrounding landscape.

Circulation and Accessibility
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A covered stone-paved path leads from the surrounding ranch to the entrance of the tower, carefully guiding visitors from the natural terrain to the building. This pathway is designed for easy access while respecting the landscape. The lighting plan includes fixtures that ensure safety as visitors move through the space. The lights highlight significant features and help create an inviting environment during the evening.

The design draws attention to the relationship between the tower and its surroundings, where the perforated panels interact with light and create an inviting space that encourages visitors to appreciate the rural beauty.

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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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