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Petal Structure Utilizing Recycled Plastics Within an Ecological Tower

Author:
Neda Damianova
Petal Structure Utilizing Recycled Plastics Within an Ecological Tower
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Utilizing the form of a flower, the tower incorporates a tiered structure of dark steel and recycled plastics to create an observation space that fosters environmental awareness within the North Vidzeme biosphere reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by wildflower species, the tower's form mimics a blooming flower.
02
Each level of the structure is oriented differently to enhance views of the landscape.
03
The use of recycled plastics in railings promotes sustainable material practices.
04
Dark steel frames serve as both structural support and visual elements.
05
Visitor experience is elevated with a glass-enclosed observation space at the top.

The design draws inspiration from the various wildflower species found in the North Vidzeme biosphere reserve. Set in a rich ecological landscape, the tower embodies the qualities of a flower. It reflects small five-petaled meadow flowers like Liverleaf, Cowslip, and Herb Robert, along with bog flowers like Labrador tea. Central to the design is Agrimonia, a species that influences the tower's tiered structure, representing a step toward sustainability.

Structure and Form

The tower uses a tiered design where each level adds to the overall floral theme. Each tier is oriented differently, creating an engaging visual journey as people move upward. This arrangement shows how the levels are interconnected, mimicking the process of a flower blossoming. A framework of dark steel supports the structure, functioning as both the building's strength and a visual representation of the flower's stem.

Materiality and Sustainability

Material choices are an important aspect of the overall vision. Recycled plastics form the vibrant railings, available in red, blue, and white, including products like Ecopixel. This selection reduces the weight of the structure while promoting eco-friendly practices. Steel mesh is used for the landing floors, ensuring durability while lightening the overall load—a critical factor in achieving the design's goals.

User Engagement and Experience

Visitors use a hydraulic elevator to access each level, leading to a glass-enclosed area at the top. This space includes bar-height seating, allowing people to enjoy panoramic views while remaining aware of the landscape around them. Attention to user experience ensures that individuals feel connected to both the architecture and the environment as they ascend.

Aesthetic and Symbolic Details

There is a careful balance between solid and empty spaces throughout the design, establishing a connection between the building and its natural surroundings. The contrast of dark structural elements against colorful railings creates a visual interest that enhances the whole design. Each level symbolizes ecological growth and restoration, contributing to a narrative that connects the creation of space with the essence of the natural world.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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